safety
Former LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley sues Mayor Karen Bass for defamation
By FOX 11 Digital Team at FOX 11 Los Angeles (KTTV)
· June 24, 2026
· 1 min read
Former LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley has filed a defamation lawsuit against Mayor Karen Bass. Crowley alleges the mayor lied about her response to the Palisades Fire to shift blame and protect her own image.
Key takeaway Crowley alleges the mayor lied about her response to the Palisades Fire to shift blame and protect her own image.
Why this matters in The Los Angeles
The lawsuit filed by former LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley against Mayor Karen Bass has significant implications for the city's public safety leadership. Crowley's allegations that the mayor defamed her to shift blame for the Palisades Fire response raise questions about the mayor's handling of emergency situations and her relationship with the city's fire department. This case may also impact the city's ability to attract and retain top talent in its fire department, as prospective leaders may be deterred by the prospect of political interference and personal attacks. The outcome of this lawsuit will be closely watched by city officials, firefighters, and residents who rely on the LAFD for emergency services. It remains to be seen how the mayor's office will respond to these allegations and what measures will be taken to address any underlying issues that may have contributed to this dispute.
About this story
Original reporting by FOX 11 Los Angeles (KTTV) . The Los Angeles surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit FOX 11 Los Angeles (KTTV) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: FOX 11 Los Angeles (KTTV) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Former LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley has filed a defamation lawsuit against Mayor Karen Bass. Crowley alleges the mayor lied about her response to the Palisades Fire to shift blame and protect her own image.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by FOX 11 Los Angeles (KTTV) and curated for The Los Angeles readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by FOX 11 Digital Team at FOX 11 Los Angeles (KTTV). To learn more about how The Los Angeles selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Los Angeles, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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