A lieutenant in the San Francisco Fire Department, David Waters, is under investigation following his controversial comments online that appeared to endorse a federal immigration operation in Oakland. The situation escalated after Waters reacted to a November 19 incident involving the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). His comments have drawn significant public attention and provoked concerns regarding racial bias within the department.
Waters, who has served in the fire department for over a decade, commented on an Instagram post about the ICE operation, using a GIF that read “Gotta catch ‘em all!” The phrase, borrowed from the popular Pokémon franchise, was perceived as flippant commentary on the serious issue of immigration enforcement. The incident he referenced involved an ICE vehicle reportedly colliding with a pregnant woman’s car during a high-speed chase to apprehend a man who had allegedly attempted to evade agents after dropping a child at school.
Following Waters’ initial comment, social media users expressed their outrage. One user suggested it would be regrettable if people informed the fire department about his comments, labeling them as racist. Waters responded defensively, arguing, “how am I racist for wanting illegals deported?” He further insisted that no one was being “kidnapped” and stated, “You don’t get to enter a country illegally then complain when you’re told to leave or detained and forced to leave!”
The controversial posts and Waters’ Instagram account have since been removed. His professional online profile, previously listing him as a lieutenant with the San Francisco Fire Department, now describes him as engaged in “landscape photography.” According to records from Transparent California, Waters has been listed on the payroll since 2009, earning a total of $319,625.98 in his most recent year, which includes $264,773.96 in salary along with benefits.
Department’s Response and Commitment to Diversity
The San Francisco Fire Department is taking the matter seriously, as outlined in a statement by Lieutenant Mariano Elias. He emphasized that the comments made by Waters do not reflect the department’s values, which are rooted in a commitment to serve all community members, irrespective of their background or immigration status.
Elias stated, “We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we do not tolerate behavior that promotes hate or discrimination.” He confirmed that the department would investigate the incident thoroughly and consider appropriate actions, which may include disciplinary measures to uphold their core values and policies.
As the investigation unfolds, Waters has not publicly responded to requests for comment. The incident raises important questions about the intersection of public service and personal beliefs, particularly in roles committed to serving diverse communities. The fire department’s handling of this case may serve as a significant indicator of its dedication to inclusivity and non-discrimination in the future.
