As the devastating California wildfires continue to rage, impacting countless lives and properties, legal experts are demanding accountability from those in leadership positions. The fires, which have claimed over 20 lives as of this week, have ignited a firestorm of criticism directed at Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom. Allegations range from insufficient resource allocation to Mayor Bass's international travel during the crisis and budget cuts to the city's fire department.
Judges Adam Levy and Tanya Acker, from Prime Video's "Tribunal Justice," expressed their desire for those responsible to be held accountable. Judge Acker, personally affected by the fires, shared her firsthand experience of the devastation within her community, highlighting the hardship faced by those who lost their homes. While grateful her own evacuation was brief, she emphasized the severity of the situation.
A firefighter battles the Eaton Fire in Altadena, California, January 9, 2025. (REUTERS/Ringo Chiu)
Judge Levy, son of Judge Judy and a creator of "Tribunal Justice," expressed his hope for legal action to hold responsible parties accountable. He acknowledged the challenges of navigating sovereign immunity and third-party liability, which often leave taxpayers footing the bill, and advocated for changes to the system.
"Palisades Fire" near Brentwood, Los Angeles, California, January 11, 2025. (Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
One lawsuit has already been filed against Southern California Edison, alleging negligence in maintaining power lines and vegetation, contributing to the Eaton fire. Levy criticized public officials who, shielded by immunity, prioritize re-election over constituent safety. He called for reforms to ensure accountability and consequences for decisions that endanger the public.
Adam Levy, right, with Judge Tanya Acker and Judge Patricia DiMango on "Tribunal Justice." (Michael Becker/Prime Video)
While cautioning against politicizing the tragedy, Judge Acker stressed the importance of thorough investigations to determine the root causes and prevent future occurrences. She emphasized the need for rebuilding and holding decision-makers accountable. Both judges expressed outrage over reports of looting in the affected communities, condemning those who exploit vulnerable victims and calling for their prosecution.
The Santa Monica Police Department has made arrests in evacuation zones, apprehending individuals with burglary tools and narcotics. The upcoming second season of "Tribunal Justice" premieres on Prime Video on January 27th.
