Former NYPD lieutenant Quathisha Epps filed a complaint with Internal Affairs today after nude videos of her began circulating on messaging apps, a move that comes amid a larger scandal involving alleged coerced sex for overtime opportunities within the department. Epps, who retired amid these allegations, claims the leaked videos were shared without her consent and under duress, originally with former Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey, whom she accuses of sexual coercion.
According to NY Daily News, Epps' lawyer Eric Sanders stated, "Earlier today, we became aware that coerced and unauthorized nude videos and images of Ms. Epps — shared with her abuser under duress — are being circulated via WhatsApp and other messaging platforms used by NYPD personnel." He further noted that a police officer may be responsible for the leak, identified through "confidential sources." Sanders has submitted evidence to the IAB for confirmation, including the officer's profile and phone number.
The release of these videos occurred hours before ABC News was slated to air an interview with Epps detailing her alleged experiences with Maddrey, who resigned in the wake of the scandal. The complaint details a sordid history of quid pro quo sexual harassment, where Maddrey is said to have exploited Epps' vulnerabilities and manipulated overtime-reporting as a means of coercion. "Make no mistake — these violations will not deter Ms. Epps from pursuing every available legal avenue to hold her abuser and his enablers fully accountable," Sanders wrote, as Epps pledged to continue her legal fight, as noted by NY Daily News.
At an NYPD promotion ceremony, Commissioner Jessica Tisch did not directly mention the unfolding scandal, but made clear her expectations of the force's leadership. "You are all part of a new era of professionalism, of respect and of dedication that will define the NYPD under my tenure," Tisch said, as reported by ABC7 Chicago. "That is my standard," she affirmed, "And it is as clear as it is non-negotiable." Tisch made personnel changes within the department, including the appointment of Edward Thompson as interim chief of the internal affairs bureau, stating the unit "must always be dedicated to preserving integrity and rooting out corruption in all its forms."
