Lawsuit Alleges LA County CEO Received Illegal Payment
A new lawsuit has surfaced, claiming that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a seven-figure payment to county CEO Fethia Davenport, which critics are dubbing an unlawful “gift of public funds.”
This payment was allegedly sanctioned in a secretive arrangement last year, kept under wraps until now. Reports suggest it was meant to address Davenport’s “alleged reputational damage, embarrassment, and emotional distress” following a ballot measure that would transition her position from appointed to elected starting in 2028.
The lawsuit, initiated by county resident Ana Cristina Lee Escudero, asserts that the $2 million payment violates the California Constitution. It argues Davenport’s claims are unfounded, as they represent public funds rather than legitimate legal settlements. It further notes that there was a concealed exemption from liability approved during a private meeting.
Interestingly, the filing points out that Davenport had explicitly informed the Board of Supervisors in writing back in 2024 that she did not intend to pursue any legal action regarding the matter.
Since going on medical leave in October, Davenport has not been seen in town. It’s reported that she informed county staff there was no budget for raises while negotiating for this financial gain.
“This is a significant amount of money at a time when the county is claiming an economic and financial crisis,” stated Anthony Meraz, a deputy sheriff and vice president of the deputy sheriff’s union. He expressed his discontent, saying, “Leaders eat last. The idea behind being in charge is that you should take care of the people you are in charge of.”
David Green, president of SEIU 721, representing a large number of county employees, added that members are “really outraged” by the situation.
Mira Hashmall, an attorney hired by the county to defend the agreement, argued that the payments fulfilled a “legitimate public purpose” by preventing potential litigation and dismissed the lawsuit as unfounded. The lawsuit is demanding that a judge require Davenport to return the $2 million to taxpayers.
