”Capelle reported to [former City Manager Paulina Morales] that Wu had instructed him to approve plans for the business, even if they were not in full compliance with applicable codes. Capelle told Morales that he was unwilling to commit such fraud.”
Complaint, Vincent A. Capelle v. City of West Covina, 26STCV06790
(Los Angeles Superior Court. 3/2/2026)
Legal Expenditure Update:
Capelle vs. City of West Covina
Over the course of several years, former Fire Chief Vincent Capelle reported unlawful conduct to his superiors—two city managers—and Human Resources. In 2024, former City Manager Paulina Morales, issued Capelle a notice
indicating his employment would be terminated. Capelle requested documents related to his termination. The City refused to provide any relevant documents Capelle filed a lawsuit alleging he was wrongfully terminated under:
1. Whistleblower Retaliation (Labor Code § 1102.5)
2. FEHA (California Fair Employment and Housing Act) Retaliation (Government Code § 12849 et seq.)
3. Failure to Prevent Retaliation under FEHA (Government Code § 12940 et seq.)
Capelle seeks judgement against the city of West Covina on all causes of action.
A Déjà Vu Lawsuit: This lawsuit is one of several wrongful terminations filed against the City that describes unlawful conduct by Councilman Tony Wu. The City has either lost or settled those lawsuits. There is cause for concern
Who Pays the Legal Expenses?
The short answer is we—the taxpaying residents of the city of West Covina--pay. See Legal Expenditure Update: Whithorn vs. City of West Covina
Learn about this case.
Complaint, Los Angeles Superior Court Case 26STCV06790
West Covina Fire Chief Vincent Capelle terminated pending appeal hearing. (November 11, 2024). San Gabriel Valley Tribune.
03/15/26 jp