Former Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley publicly defended her handling of the Palisades fire, following her demotion by Mayor Karen Bass. Crowley rejected accusations of inadequate response and insufficient briefing, arguing that the fire department faced critical shortages due to underfunding. Despite her defense, the City Council did not reinstate her. The Mayor's claims included the failure to extend the duty of approximately 1,000 firefighters, which Crowley attributed to a lack of operational engines. The Palisades fire had devastating consequences, leading to numerous fatalities and extensive property loss.
"I could not have deployed more firefighters or engines because the agency was so badly underfunded that it had critical shortages of personnel and equipment."
"The mayor accused the chief of inadequately preparing for the fire and failing to fully brief her on the impending danger."
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