4 firefighters sue city, claiming sexual harassment, abuse while working for Everett Fire Department

EVERETT, Wash. — The Everett Fire Department is facing more allegations of sexual harassment and abuse.

Four firefighters have filed lawsuits against the City of Everett, claiming there was ongoing harassment from a firefighter who was their supervisor and instructor while they were working for the department.

Pfau Cochran Vertetis Amala attorneys Michael Pfau, Mallory Allen and Alyssa Nevala, who are representing the firefighters, said the defendant also worked at the Snohomish County Fire Training Academy.

The lawsuit alleges that the instructor used his position over probationary and junior firefighters to sexually harass and assault numerous people.

Though the city reprimanded the trainer after it received complaints, he was allowed to keep his job, according to the firefighters’ attorneys.

The new lawsuits are in addition to another lawsuit that was filed late last year by a Snohomish County firefighter.

In a statement to KIRO 7, a city of Everett spokesperson said:

“The City will put forth its defense to the allegations reported by the City of Everett firefighters in Court. The City of Everett is and has always been committed to ensuring a workplace free from harassment. The City will not provide further comment on the matter as litigation is pending.”

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