The Office of the Inspector General for the NYPD released a report identifying high-ranking NYPD officials Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry and Chief John Chell for violating department policies by making “demeaning” and “unprofessional” social media posts targeting civil servants and journalists. The investigators found that the posts attempted to diminish senior law enforcement officers and manipulate the narrative in favor of the department’s goals. Chell was implicated for accusing a New York judge of allowing a “predator” to roam the city streets and later admitting he criticized the wrong judge. Additionally, he attacked a progressive City Council member and potentially violated the Hatch Act by urging his followers to “vote the change you seek.” The report noted that these online attacks violated department policies related to being courteous and civil, as well as potentially engaging in prohibited political activity.
In response to the investigation, the NYPD made significant changes to its social media practices but did not specify whether any officials would face consequences for violating department policy. The report also highlighted instances where both Chell and Daughtry gave mocking nicknames to journalists whom they accused of spreading misinformation about the administration’s achievements. Mayor Eric Adams, a former police captain, defended the officials for “standing up for police officers who are placing their lives on the line.” Chell was recently appointed as the chief of the department, replacing an Adams ally who resigned amid sexual abuse allegations. A spokesperson for the City Council emphasized the importance of aligning the NYPD’s social media practices with the city’s established policy and ensuring strong oversight to maintain compliance with the guidelines.
The inspector general’s report indicated that the online attacks ceased after the investigation began last year, not due to any official change in department social media policies but because the department recognized that it could address criticism without sparking public backlash. The report underscored the necessity for the NYPD to hold accountable those found to have violated policies in order to ensure appropriate and respectful social media practices. The investigation raised concerns about the conduct of high-ranking NYPD officials and their online behavior, prompting the department to implement changes to prevent similar incidents in the future. Efforts to maintain compliance with internal guidelines and city policy were emphasized as crucial for upholding the professionalism and integrity of the NYPD on social media platforms.
The report’s findings shed light on the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in managing their online presence and interactions with the public, journalists, and elected officials. It emphasized the need for law enforcement leaders to adhere to department policies, act with civility and respect in their online communications, and avoid engaging in political activities that could violate regulations. The investigation served as a reminder of the importance of accountability, oversight, and compliance within the NYPD to maintain public trust and uphold the standards of professionalism expected of law enforcement officers. Moving forward, the NYPD’s social media practices and interactions with external stakeholders will be closely monitored to ensure alignment with city policies and internal guidelines, as well as to prevent any future violations of department policies.
