NEW YORK — Another scandal rocks the New York police.
Jeffrey Maddrey, the highest-ranking uniformed officer in the departmentresigned Friday evening after an explosive allegation of sexual misconduct in the workplace.
The former department head is accused of having exchanged sexual favors for overtime.
Learn more about the allegations
Lt. Quathisha Epps filed a complaint Saturday with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, saying the abuse began last year and continued until this week.
Maddrey just appeared a few days ago before the city council’s public safety committee to defend the use of stop and frisk by the New York police. Meanwhile, a major upheaval was occurring. Epps alleges that between June 2023 and Monday, Maddrey engaged in efforts “to coerce her into providing unwanted sexual favors in exchange for overtime opportunities.”
She said that included office sex.
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According to publicly available payroll data, Epps earned a salary of more than $164,000 last year, but after accounting for overtime, she earned more than $400,000.
After refusing her advances in October, she claims Maddrey retaliated by “orchestrating an intentionally manipulated monthly overtime report,” which resulted in “an open criminal and internal investigation against her.”
Her attorney adds: “Systemic failures within the NYPD allowed Chief Maddrey’s predatory behavior to continue unchecked, culminating in her promotion to the department’s highest position by Mayor Eric Adams, despite a well-documented history of misconduct and abuse of power.
Adams’ office released a statement saying, “We are deeply troubled by these allegations and the NYPD is investigating this matter.” Mayor Adams works in close coordination with the Police Commissioner. [Jessica] Tisch, as NYPD, is conducting a separate department-wide review to ensure no high-ranking officer is using their power inappropriately. We will refrain from further comment to avoid compromising either investigation.”
Epps also claims Maddrey had an inappropriate relationship with another female detective. The allegations attracted the attention of the city’s Department of Investigation, as well as the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
“These are extremely serious and disturbing allegations that allegedly took place at the NYPD headquarters in Manhattan. We are investigating,” said the spokesperson for the Manhattan district attorney’s office.
NYPD commissioner appoints acting chiefs
After Maddrey’s resignation, Tisch Tisch named Patrol Chief John Chell as interim department head and Transportation Chief Philip Rivera was named interim patrol chief.
“The NYPD works tirelessly to protect New Yorkers, and these roles are essential to keeping our communities safe,” Tisch said in a statement. “Acting department and patrol chiefs will continue to lead efforts to reduce crime and disorder and build public trust.”
Tisch also announced the appointment of 38-year NYPD veteran Edward A. Thompson as Acting Chief of Internal Affairs, effective immediately.
“Above all else, the NYPD Internal Affairs Bureau must always be dedicated to preserving integrity and rooting out corruption in all its forms,” Tisch said. “This is an essential function that is crucial to maintaining the honor and nobility of the profession and preserving the public trust. Chief Thompson is up to the task.
