NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey resigns amid sexual misconduct allegations
NEW YORK CITY (WABC) -- The nation's largest police department is embroiled in a high-level shakeup amid the crisis engulfing Mayor Eric Adams and his administration.
On Friday night, the highest-ranking uniformed officer of the New York City Police Department abruptly resigned amid accusations of sexual misconduct.
Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey turned in his retirement papers as the New York Post was about to publish a story about a female subordinate's claim that Maddrey, at police headquarters in lower Manhattan, demanded sexual favors, and received them, in exchange for approving overtime.
According to an ABC News source, the city first learned of the allegations against Maddrey when contacted by the newspaper for comment.
"Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch accepted the resignation of Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey Friday night, effective immediately. The NYPD takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously, and will thoroughly investigate this matter," a statement from the NYPD said.
The allegations are now under criminal investigation by New York City's Department of Investigation, sources told ABC News.
The Manhattan District Attorney's Office is also investigating.
"These are extremely serious and disturbing claims that allegedly occurred at N.Y.P.D. headquarters in Manhattan," said a spokesperson. "We are investigating."
The city expects the accuser will file a notice of claim outlining her allegations.
Maddrey started in the NYPD in 1991 and rose through the ranks over the years.
His tenure as chief of department has been tumultuous.
An oversight board recommended that he should be punished for interfering with a 2021 arrest. Former Commissioner Keechant Sewell approved the discipline but her successor, Edward Caban, dismissed the case.
Maddrey has previously faced accusations of sexual harassment and gender discrimination, which he has denied.
A spokesperson for New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the following statement Saturday:
"We are deeply disturbed by these allegations and the NYPD is investigating this matter. Mayor Adams is working in close coordination with Police Commissioner Tisch as the NYPD conducts a separate department-wide review to ensure no high ranking officers are using their power inappropriately. We will refrain from commenting further to avoid jeopardizing either investigation."
On Saturday, Tisch named John Chell as acting chief of department, charged with overseeing the NYPD's crime-fighting strategies, quality of life initiatives and operational plans. Chell most recently served as chief of patrol.
Chief of Transportation Philip Rivera will take over in that role.
As Chief of Transportation, Rivera was responsible for ensuring the safety of the roads, bridges, and highways across New York City.
ALSO READ | Mayor Eric Adams appoints Jessica Tisch as next NYPD commissioner
----------
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
