A former leader of the Los Angeles Fire Department’s labor union is under scrutiny after allegations of financial misconduct. Adam Walker, who served as the secretary of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City (UFLAC), has been suspended by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). The union claims he misappropriated funds from the UFLAC Fire Foundation, which supports injured firefighters.
The allegations surfaced late last year. The IAFF accused Walker of improperly depositing over $75,000 from the charity into his personal accounts between December 2022 and January 2024. Additionally, he is accused of using $5,000 for personal expenses. Walker has denied these claims, stating that the money was meant for golf tournaments to support a disabled firefighter, and he insists that all deposits were reimbursements for legitimate expenses.
Walker remains employed as a firefighter and asserts that he provided receipts for more than $17,000 in expenses. However, the IAFF is conducting a forensic audit to investigate the situation thoroughly. They are also reviewing the finances of UFLAC, including the use of union credit cards by its officers. The results of this investigation will determine whether UFLAC will be placed under trusteeship, which could lead to the removal of its officers.
The IAFF has outlined serious charges against Walker, including embezzlement and breach of fiduciary duty. These are internal union charges and not criminal offenses. A union hearing is expected soon, where a board will decide if Walker will face a trial. If found guilty, he could be permanently barred from union membership and ordered to repay the foundation.
The amount involved in the allegations represents a significant portion of the foundation’s assets, which totaled around $287,000 in the last fiscal year. The IAFF claims Walker made numerous unauthorized purchases using the foundation’s credit card, including gift cards and personal expenses, without providing adequate receipts or explanations.
UFLAC President Freddy Escobar has refrained from commenting on the allegations, emphasizing the need for due process. The union, known for its political influence, has recently been vocal about issues surrounding city leadership, particularly in the wake of the firing of LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley, which has further complicated the situation for the firefighters’ union.