Federal agents executed search warrants at the Queens home of former NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey on Thursday, January 2nd. The raid is part of an ongoing investigation into sexual misconduct allegations and potential misuse of overtime benefits. Maddrey, who resigned in December 2024, has faced a series of misconduct accusations, including claims from multiple colleagues.
Maddrey, once the highest-ranking uniformed officer in the NYPD, was officially suspended on the day of the raid. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau is cooperating with federal authorities. Search warrants were also executed at additional properties linked to Maddrey, with FBI agents seizing evidence. This marks a dramatic turn for Maddrey, who had a 30-year career in the department, culminating in his role overseeing operational strategies.
The investigation stems from allegations made by Lieutenant Quathisha Epps, who accused Maddrey of engaging in “quid pro quo” sexual harassment. Epps claimed Maddrey coerced her into providing sexual favors in exchange for overtime opportunities, including physical encounters in the office. Epps, the NYPD’s highest earner in 2024, received over $400,000 in total pay, with more than half attributed to overtime. Following her refusal of Maddrey’s advances in October, Epps alleges she faced retaliation in the form of manipulated overtime reports and a criminal probe.
Maddrey has denied the allegations, insisting their relationship was consensual. His attorney, Lambros Lambrou, accused Epps of fabricating the claims to deflect scrutiny from her own alleged overtime abuse. Maddrey’s defense team has promised to provide evidence, including phone calls and photos, to refute Epps’ accusations. Despite these denials, the allegations have spurred investigations by the NYPD, the Department of Investigation, and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
This is not the first time Maddrey has faced misconduct claims. A previous complaint from NYPD Captain Gabrielle Walls alleged years of unwanted advances, which she said were ignored by the department. Walls described Maddrey’s resignation as vindication of her long-standing allegations.
The case against Maddrey highlights systemic challenges in addressing harassment and misconduct within law enforcement. As federal investigators continue their work, the NYPD has announced that Chief of Patrol John Chell will assume Maddrey’s former role, signaling a shift in leadership amid a scandal that has shaken the department.
