Union Treasurer Accuses Former President of Battery
The Los Angeles Fire Department is investigating an alleged altercation involving two high-ranking union officials.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Unions
United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Treasurer Jason Powell has accused former union president Freddy Escobar of battery following a meeting. The incident reportedly occurred at the union headquarters on Beverly Boulevard.
Why it matters
The dispute centers on internal governance and disagreements over a proposed $3 million expenditure for the upcoming Measure FD campaign. The tension coincides with ongoing oversight concerns regarding the organization's financial practices.
The conflict arose during a special meeting to discuss the $3 million Measure FD campaign budget, which involves a 0.5% sales tax increase. The organization previously faced an investigation into $800,000 of undocumented credit card purchases.
The players
Jason Powell
He serves as the treasurer for the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City.
Freddy Escobar
He is the former president of the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City union.
Los Angeles Fire Department
This is the municipal agency currently investigating the incident through its Professional Standards Division.
The details
Jason Powell reported the incident to police, claiming that three or four individuals witnessed the alleged battery at the headquarters. Freddy Escobar has denied the allegation and his legal counsel has demanded the withdrawal of the complaint.
Timeline
October 16, 2026: The alleged battery occurred at the union headquarters.
October 16, 2026, 11 a.m.: Los Angeles police received a radio call regarding the incident.
November 3, 2026: The scheduled date for the Measure FD ballot vote.
2025: The year Escobar and two other leaders were suspended from their positions.
Political Context
The incident reflects deep-seated friction among union leadership regarding the aggressive financial push for Measure FD. Opponents and dissenting voices within the organization have expressed long-standing concerns regarding the financial stewardship of current leadership.
The public is closely watching this dispute as it may impact the promotion and eventual vote on the Measure FD sales tax proposal. Residents should monitor updates to see if the internal union instability affects the rollout of this municipal tax measure.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the volatility within the organization as it navigates both a leadership dispute and a significant ballot campaign. Members and the public must await the results of the official investigation to clarify the events of October 16.
What happens next
Voters will decide on the Measure FD ballot initiative on November 3, 2026.
Further reading
For additional context on local labor developments, visit the Unions section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Firehouse.
