The New York City Police Department (NYPD) has initiated an internal review in response to a video circulating on social media, depicting an officer using a homophobic slur over a police car announcement system. The video, shared on Instagram and viewed by over 2 million people, captures an officer in the passenger’s seat of a marked police car making derogatory remarks related to oral sex, followed by the use of a deeply offensive term.
In an email statement, an NYPD spokesperson reaffirmed the department’s commitment to maintaining respectful work environments and stated, “The Department does not tolerate discrimination in any form.” The incident is currently under internal review by the NYPD.
The Gay Officers Action League (GOAL), a nonprofit advocacy group dedicated to LGBTQ members of the NYPD, issued a condemnation of the behavior, emphasizing its incompatibility with the trust and expectations held for law enforcement professionals. GOAL underscored the need to address ongoing prejudices within society and the urgency of combatting hate speech. They vowed not to remain silent and to ensure the respect and dignity of all LGBTQIA+ individuals, both within and outside the law enforcement community.
GOAL is closely monitoring the ongoing NYPD investigation and anticipates appropriate disciplinary measures in line with the department’s professional standards. Brian Downey, President of GOAL and an NYPD detective, expressed his appreciation for the swift response from the police department’s leadership, emphasizing their understanding of the situation. While certain aspects of the disciplinary process remain confidential, GOAL remains vigilant, ensuring accountability in this matter.