Top-level NYPD officials are facing allegations of using confidential information from a criminal justice activist’s rape case to publicly smear her, according to a federal lawsuit. The disturbing claims have prompted sexual assault survivor advocates to call for accountability from the police brass. The lawsuit, filed by Dana Rachlin on April 8, reveals that she had previously worked alongside police leaders, including Chief of Department Jeff Maddrey and Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry, to address violence and strengthen community-police relations through the non-profit organization “We Build The Block” in Brooklyn.
However, their relationship soured during the 2020 George Floyd protests when Rachlin criticized police brass for their approach to “violent policing” and spoke out against Deputy Inspector Craig Edelman, the commander of the 73rd precinct. The lawsuit alleges that “libelous letters and memos” containing details of Rachlin’s sexual assault from 2017, which only police officials could have known, were circulated to community leaders, faith leaders, and potential partners of her non-profit.
The alleged smear campaign against Rachlin intensified after she reported Edelman’s actions to police brass, including Maddrey, accusing him of involvement in “violent incidents.” According to the lawsuit, Rachlin discovered Edelman laughing at videos of shootings, police assaults, and other acts of violence suffered by New York City residents, and encouraging other officers to view them for “entertainment.” Rachlin’s efforts to expose Edelman’s behavior led to his removal as the Brownsville precinct commander.
Following the incident, Rachlin was barred from police station houses and her non-profit was excluded from working in certain neighborhoods by precinct commanders in Brooklyn North. Chief of Patrol John Chell allegedly made a statement suggesting that Rachlin could be humiliated at any time. Rachlin pleaded with Maddrey to put an end to the defamation campaign against her when details of her rape complaint were allegedly made public. Maddrey assured her that he would address the issue.
Sexual assault survivor advocates, including Jane Manning, the director of the Women’s Equal Justice Project and a former sex crimes prosecutor, have called for an investigation into the alleged leak of confidential police files. They argue that it should not be difficult to identify the responsible party, as only a few individuals would have had access to Rachlin’s case. Deputy Chief Michael Osgood, former head of the NYPD’s Special Victims Division, has also highlighted a pattern and practice of gender-based discrimination within the department and called for the district attorney to address the potential criminal conduct.
Mayor Eric Adams and Police Commissioner Edward Caban have yet to respond to the letters from sexual assault survivor advocates. Adams previously stated that he would let attorneys determine the way forward on this matter. Rachlin’s attorney, MK Kaishian, has accused police officials of being unleashed on anyone they perceive as an enemy.
The ongoing feud between Chief of Patrol John Chell, Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry, and a Daily News columnist has further raised concerns about the conduct of NYPD officials. Chell, who was involved in a controversial shooting in 2008 resulting in a settlement for the victim’s family, was appointed as chief of patrol in 2022.
While Mayor Adams has expressed support for his police administration’s efforts to promote a positive police narrative, he has also emphasized the need for private discussions to address any issues within his administration.
1 Response
It is deeply concerning to hear about allegations of misuse of confidential information by top-level NYPD officials. This situation highlights the need for stricter protocols and safeguards when it comes to handling sensitive information within law enforcement agencies.
One potential solution could be the implementation of an independent oversight committee that reviews and monitors the access and use of confidential information by law enforcement officials. This committee could consist of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including legal experts, community representatives, and civil rights advocates. Their role would be to ensure that confidential information