In her first public comment since KSAT broke the news of her censure by an international fire union, San Antonio Fire Department Chief Valerie Frausto defended her decisions on disciplinary and policy issues.

"I am disappointed by the characterization of my leadership and the suggestion that these decision were made without careful consideration or regard for our firefighters," Frausto wrote in a department-wide letter on Friday addressed to "SAFD Family." Frausto said "several of the narratives being shared publicly are incomplete and do not reflect the full circumstances behind these decisions," which she couldn't fully discuss.

However, the chief wrote "I do not take significant decisions lightly" and she makes the decision "I believe best serves this department and our community." "Sometimes that means making difficult decisions, including decisions that may be unpopular or misunderstood," she continues in the letter.