The NYPD is working to reduce overtime expenses tied to a scandal involving a former chief who allegedly coerced an officer into sexual acts. Quathisha Epps, who retired in December after the situation came to light, was the highest-paid officer in the department last year.
Sources indicate that Epps received compensation for work she didn’t actually perform and was informed about a supposed debt she owed. This controversy escalated following her claims of being pressured to engage in sexual acts by Jeffrey Madrid, a former top officer who abruptly resigned after the allegations surfaced.
Epps is demanding the NYPD repay her approximately $231,890.75, asserting that she is speaking out for all women who faced retaliation for standing up. She feels that any attempts to silence her only highlight the importance of truth.
This situation is linked to an NYPD investigation into overtime claims, which involved Paul Saraceno, Epps’ former supervisor, who was recently dismissed. He allegedly approved Epps’ overtime hours retroactively.
Epps’ attorney, Eric Sanders, contends that the NYPD’s communications lacked evidence showing she hadn’t worked during the claimed hours. He described the overtime issue as a distraction from the deeper ethical and legal problems within the department, emphasizing that accurate record-keeping is the employer’s responsibility.
Reports from November revealed that Epps was set to earn $403,515 in 2024, including significant overtime pay, on top of her base salary.
Epps has accused Madrid of forcing her into sexual encounters at his office, claiming that she voiced her discomfort during their first meeting. Following her accusations, Epps filed a federal complaint against Madrid, who resigned the day the news broke. Not long after, he held a press conference admitting to a relationship with Epps, while also asserting that she sought to undermine his credibility.
As for Epps’ future, it appears her retirement pension will be significantly reduced compared to her former colleagues, and she will also miss out on additional benefits.
In response to the scandal, Police Commissioner Jessica Tish has initiated changes within the department, including shifting personnel and leadership roles.
The Department of Justice conducted a raid related to the investigation, although the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has since dropped the case.
A retired NYPD official voiced concern over the department’s request for repayment from Epps, especially given that Madrid was allowed to retire with a full pension. They highlighted that Epps had expressed her desire for Madrid to stop during the incidents, raising questions about the serious nature of her allegations.
The NYPD has not provided any comments on this matter.
