LA firefighters union leaders suspended over $800,000 in undocumented spending

In Los Angeles, significant financial misconduct within the firefighters labor union has surfaced, leading to severe repercussions for its leadership. An internal audit was initiated by the International Association of Fire Fighters due to irregularities flagged by an officer in October 2024. It uncovered over $800,000 in undocumented credit card spending, particularly highlighting actions by union President Freddy Escobar, who reportedly utilized more than $300,000 without proper receipts between July 2018 and November 2024. The union, representing over 3,600 members, faced scrutiny as the parent organization announced the suspension of Escobar and two vice presidents due to inadequate oversight of financial practices. Escobar has publicly denied any wrongdoing, framing the allegations as politically motivated attacks. The investigation also revealed previous unauthorized transfers by then-secretary Adam Walker, who misappropriated more than $80,000 into his personal accounts, funding personal debts and casino withdrawals. These actions prompted calls for a conservatorship of the union to ensure proper financial management and safeguard the interests of its members. The ongoing financial malpractice highlighted the urgent need for structural changes within the union's financial governance to prevent such significant breaches from reoccurring.