Kristin Crowley: the LA fire chief publicly criticizing the city’s budget cuts

LA's first female fire chief, in a public spat with the mayor, is a 25-year veteran who's prioritized diversifying her team

Kristin Crowley was appointed Los Angeles fire chief in 2022 at a time of turmoil in a department consumed by complaints of rampant hazing, harassment and discrimination among its 3,400-member ranks.

She was portrayed by then mayor Eric Garcetti as a stabilizing force, a trailblazer and the most qualified person. I look for who's best, not just who makes history, because the protection of our city first and foremost has to go to the human being who is best prepared to lead. But let me be clear, that is Kristin Crowley," he said.