UPDATE: A San Francisco Fire Department lieutenant is under urgent investigation following inflammatory comments he made supporting federal immigration operations. Lt. David Waters, with over a decade of service, sparked outrage online after he responded to a November story about an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in Oakland, stating he wanted more immigrants deported.
Waters’ comments included a GIF featuring Pikachu with the phrase “Gotta catch ‘em all!” in a post about a controversial incident on November 19, where an ICE vehicle was involved in a high-speed chase that damaged a pregnant woman’s car. Fortunately, she was unharmed. The man ICE pursued had reportedly just dropped off a child at an elementary school.
After his initial post on SFGate’s Instagram, Waters engaged with users, further defending his stance by questioning how wanting to deport “illegals” equates to racism. He stated, “You don’t get to enter a country illegally then complain when you’re told to leave.” Following public backlash, Waters’ posts and Instagram profile have since been deleted.
Records reveal Waters’ recent salary was $319,625.98, which included $264,773.96 in pay and additional benefits. His professional profile has now been altered to list him as a landscape photographer. The fire department, led by Lt. Mariano Elias, has confirmed that they are taking this matter seriously.
“The San Francisco Fire Department is aware of the social media comments made by an off-duty employee and is taking the matter seriously,” stated Elias. He emphasized that the comments do not align with the department’s commitment to serve all community members, regardless of their background or immigration status.
Elias further noted, “We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we do not tolerate behavior that promotes hate or discrimination.” The department has pledged to investigate the incident thoroughly and take appropriate action, which may include disciplinary measures.
Waters has not yet responded to requests for comment. As the investigation unfolds, community members and officials alike are watching closely to see how the San Francisco Fire Department will address this urgent issue.
This developing story raises important questions about the responsibilities of public servants and their influence on community perceptions of immigration. Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves.
