Overview
- A Los Angeles Times report cites two sources saying Mayor Karen Bass told then‑interim Chief Ronnie Villanueva the unrevised after‑action report posed legal risks and wanted findings about LAFD performance removed or softened.
- The Times reports two confidants say Bass held an early draft until changes were made and that both are prepared to testify under oath about her role.
- Bass’ office rejects the allegations, saying she only asked LAFD to fact‑check weather and budget details, made no edits, and calling the Times’ story muckraking; the paper says it stands by its reporting.
- Report author Battalion Chief Kenneth Cook refused to endorse the final version after changes, and Fire Chief Jaime Moore has acknowledged softening occurred but says he will not investigate who ordered edits.
- Political fallout mounted as Rick Caruso briefly reconsidered a 2026 mayoral run before announcing he will not enter the race, while LAFD says most of the report’s 42 recommendations, including mandatory staffing on red‑flag days, are already in place.