The NYPD’s top uniformed officer, Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey, has resigned following allegations of sexual misconduct, including claims that he demanded sex from a subordinate in exchange for extra pay opportunities.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch accepted Maddrey’s resignation on Friday night, effective immediately, according to a Saturday statement from the department. Chief of Patrol John Chell will serve as interim chief of department, with Philip Rivera assuming Chell’s patrol division responsibilities.
The department declined to comment on the allegations but emphasized its commitment to investigating sexual misconduct claims thoroughly.
Lt. Quathisha Epps, who worked in Maddrey’s office, filed a federal complaint Saturday with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, accusing Maddrey of “quid pro quo sexual harassment.” Epps alleged Maddrey coerced her into unwanted sexual acts in exchange for overtime assignments and retaliated against her when she resisted by accusing her of abusing overtime. This prompted a departmental review, during which Epps was suspended without pay despite having submitted her retirement notice.
Attorney Eric Sanders, representing Epps, called the resignation overdue. “This should have been done a long time ago,” Sanders said. “This behavior has persisted for years and reflects systemic issues within the NYPD.”
Epps was the NYPD’s top earner in fiscal year 2024, reportedly making over $400,000, more than half from overtime pay.
“Ms. Epps has endured profound harm at the hands of individuals who exploited their positions of power,” Sanders said. “Her experience underscores the urgent need for reform within the NYPD.”
Maddrey faces additional accusations of misconduct. Capt. Gabrielle Walls amended her sexual harassment lawsuit against another officer to include claims that Maddrey repeatedly made unwanted advances, causing her to take extreme measures to avoid him. Attorney John Scola, representing Walls, said Maddrey’s resignation “vindicates” his client and could signal cultural change within the NYPD.
A former officer also alleged Maddrey coerced her into a yearslong affair while he was her supervisor, though a state judge dismissed the case last month.
Maddrey’s attorney, Lambros Lambrou, dismissed Epps’ claims as “completely meritless,” asserting that her allegations coincided suspiciously with an investigation into her overtime practices.
Maddrey’s departure comes amid broader scrutiny of NYPD leadership. Earlier this year, an administrative judge recommended dropping a disciplinary case against Maddrey regarding a 2021 incident where he allegedly interfered in an arrest.
Having joined the NYPD in 1991, Maddrey rose through the ranks to become chief of patrol in 2021 and chief of department in 2022. As the highest-ranking uniformed officer, he oversaw crime-fighting strategies and operational plans.
In her statement, Commissioner Tisch pledged that interim leadership would continue efforts to reduce crime and build public trust, highlighting the critical nature of these roles for public safety.
Meanwhile, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has opened an investigation into the claims against Maddrey, calling them “extremely serious and disturbing.”
Mayor Eric Adams, a former NYPD captain, also voiced alarm at the allegations, promising a thorough review.
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