NEW YORK, NY – Federal agents and NYPD internal affairs investigators executed multiple search warrants early Wednesday morning in a sweeping criminal investigation targeting current and former high-ranking police officials.
High-Profile Targets Named
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the ongoing criminal probe but declined to name the specific individuals involved. However, sources close to the investigation reveal that the raids targeted several prominent figures within the department:
- Deputy Chief James McCarthy (Manhattan South) – Placed on modified duty and transferred.
- Lieutenant James Lee (Manhattan South) – Placed on modified duty.
- Tarik Sheppard (Former NYPD Spokesman) – Sources state his home was searched and his phone was seized.
None of the officials have been criminally charged at this time.
Links to Former Chief Jeffrey Maddrey
According to sources familiar with the matter, the investigation is closely tied to former Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey. Maddrey, who was previously the highest-ranking uniformed officer in the NYPD, resigned in late December 2024 following allegations of misconduct involving the trading of overtime perks for sexual acts.
Federal agents reportedly searched Maddrey’s home on Wednesday as part of the joint operation.
Leadership Vows to Root Out Corruption
The raids mark a major moment for Commissioner Tisch, who reiterated her stance on police integrity following the morning’s events. “Under my leadership, the NYPD will conduct itself with integrity,” Tisch said in an official statement, promising a thorough investigation into any members who fail to meet that standard.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani also backed the operation during a public appearance, calling the alleged actions a “breach of trust” and praising the FBI, the Southern District of New York (SDNY), and Commissioner Tisch for their commitment to cracking down on corruption.
