NYPD chief resigns amid sexual misconduct allegations: Details
NEW YORK - The NYPD’s Chief of Department, Jeffrey Maddrey, resigned Friday night after being accused of demanding sexual favors from a subordinate, Lt. Quathisha Epps, in exchange for overtime opportunities.
Epps filed a federal complaint Saturday, alleging Maddrey engaged in "quid pro quo sexual harassment" and retaliated against her when she resisted.
FILE - NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey speaks to the media at the scene of a police involved shooting at 330 Lewis Avenue in Brooklyn, New York City on Thursday, April 13, 2023. (Gardiner Anderson for NY Daily News via Getty Images)
Epps, the department’s top earner in 2024, claims Maddrey falsely accused her of overtime abuse, leading to her suspension without pay. Her attorney, Eric Sanders, called the resignation overdue, stating, "This has been years in the making."
Maddrey denies the allegations, calling them "completely meritless."
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Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg said the case boils down to "three words: quid pro quo."
Who will be the next police chief?
NYPD chiefs discuss subway surfing crackdown
In a interview with FOX 5, NYPD Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry and Chief of Patrol John Chell discuss the dangers of subway surfing and how their expanded drone program is designed to prevent tragic accidents. With drones now a permanent fixture during after-school hours, the NYPD aims to intercept thrill-seekers before they put their lives at risk.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced that John Chell, Chief of Patrol, will step in as interim Chief of Department. Philip Rivera will take over Chell’s duties as head of the patrol division.
In a statement, Tisch emphasized the importance of the roles, saying the interim chiefs will focus on crime reduction and public trust.
What is Maddrey accused of?
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office is investigating Epps’ claims. Mayor Eric Adams called the allegations "extremely concerning" and pledged a full review.
Maddrey has faced other misconduct allegations, including claims from a police captain and a former officer who accused him of coercive and inappropriate behavior.
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Who is Jeffery Maddrey?
Maddrey joined the NYPD in 1991, becoming Chief of Patrol in 2021 and Chief of Department in 2023. His role involved overseeing the department’s crime-fighting strategies and operational plans.
Epps’ attorney criticized the NYPD’s handling of misconduct, stating her case highlights systemic failures. Another accuser, Capt. Gabrielle Walls, said Maddrey’s resignation "vindicates" her long-standing claims of harassment.
As the investigations continue, the department has vowed to take all allegations seriously and address any misconduct thoroughly.