In a story that sees high-ranking NYPD officials embroiled in controversy, Lieutenant Quathisha Epps is demanding reinstatement and full retirement benefits after being suspended in connection to an overtime scandal. Her attorney, Eric Sanders, penned a letter on Tuesday to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch in light of the alleged sexual coercion Epps faced from the former Chief of Department, Jeffrey Maddrey. The Daily News reported Sanders' statement that the lieutenant must be "treated with fairness, dignity, and respect as the situation is resolved."
Following the release of the allegations, Maddrey, who had been the highest-ranking uniformed member of the NYPD, was compelled to leave his post. After the accusations surfaced, he left his Queens home to stay with relatives in Georgia, as stated in an exposé by The Post. His wife, now estranged, evicted Maddrey from the two-story Brookville residence, with sources citing the report as the reason for his departure.
Jeffrey Maddrey is accused of exploiting Epps's financial instability and fear of losing her home to pressure her into an alleged sex-for-perks arrangement. The Equal Employment Opportunity complaint lodged by Sanders includes Epps's description of Maddrey as a "predator," quoting, "He’d say, ‘We’re going to save your house,’ like you’re supporting me when you’re really just f–king me," according to The Post.
Before filing for retirement, which came several months shy of the 20-year mark that would assign her full benefits, Epps was put on suspension. Epps' suspension followed a report detailing her receipt of more than $200,000 in overtime pay, making her the NYPD's highest-paid officer. With intentions to proceed with her planned January retirement, her lawyer demands that the suspension be revoked and that his client be granted back pay and benefits. After she was rejected by Maddrey, "the chief retaliated by adding her name to a list of the department’s top overtime earners," a complaint alleges, as reported by The Daily News.
Maddrey has denied all allegations against him, and the Manhattan district attorney’s office has confirmed that it is currently investigating his conduct regarding the sexual abuse and harassment claims. Both Epps and Maddrey have been thrust into a public debate over sexual misconduct and corruption within the ranks of the NYPD.
