Police chief ‘reduced in rank and investigated’ for suspected inappropriate relationships with informant

NYPD Lieutenant Demoted Amid Investigation of Affair with Informant

The New York City Police Department has demoted a lieutenant, Angel Thevenin, and is currently investigating him for allegedly having an affair with a confidential informant, according to reports.

Thevenin is said to have started a serious relationship with the informant in 2021 while he was a sergeant at the 90th Precinct in Williamsburg. He was earning $183,944 last year before being demoted to the rank of sergeant just last month, following a four-month investigation led by the Home Office.

Officials have confirmed the investigation by the Bureau of Internal Affairs (IAB). While not explicit in NYPD’s guidelines, law enforcement agencies generally prohibit sexual relationships with informants due to the risk of compromising ongoing investigations.

A source familiar with the matter indicated, “It was evident from the start that something was amiss. That’s why they demoted him.” There was reportedly sufficient evidence supporting the claims against Thevenin.

Another source remarked on the nature of the relationship, expressing disbelief: “I don’t understand. She’s an informant, so what does that mean for her activities while he was involved with her?”

As the investigation continues, Thevenin has been transferred to a role overseeing inmates in a Manhattan courtroom, as indicated by records and sources.

A fellow officer questioned Thevenin’s continued presence around inmates, suggesting he should face charges for official misconduct. Thevenin previously worked in narcotics before rising to the rank of lieutenant at the 77th Precinct in Crown Heights. Additionally, there are allegations involving another relationship with an NYPD officer.

Thevenin was recently promoted to lieutenant in August 2024, shortly before these allegations surfaced. He was called in for an IAB interview in September 2025 and was demoted on January 21 of this year. It appears, however, that he will not face termination.