A veteran helicopter pilot and the first woman hired by the Orange County Fire Authority to fly choppers is suing the OCFA to get her job back.
Desiree Horton was fired one year into her probationary period with OCFA and is accusing the agency of gender discrimination, according to CBS2.
Horton has more than 30 years' experience as a helicopter pilot. She was the first woman to fly for the state Department of Forestry, where she flew for a decade, as well as serving as a helicopter pilot at CBS2 and KCAL9.
Supporters held a rally in front of OCFA headquarters Thursday evening. Retired firefighter Boschko Ikovic came to support Horton. He told CBS 2 that Horton was the best pilot he ever worked with, and she's a role model for young people.
Despite claims of discrimination, Horton’s attorney said she just wants her job back. The OCFA said it does not comment on pending litigation.