An Analysis of NYPD Excessive Force Complaints, Claims, and Lawsuits
Executive Summary
Allegations from the public that New York City Police Department’s (NYPD) officers have used excessive or unnecessary force increased significantly during the Adams Administration,[1] increasing risks to New Yorkers, costly claims payouts, and the erosion of community trust that can undermine public safety. Incidents of excessive or unnecessary use of force investigated and closed by the City’s Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) jumped by 49% between 2022 and 2023, to the highest number since 2013. In addition, in Fiscal Year 2025, “Police Action” claims—including those involving excessive or unnecessary force—were the most common tort claims against the City, with 6,082 claims filed and over $113 million in settlements, making the NYPD the City’s largest source of claims.[2]
Some recent developments suggest that the NYPD is taking steps to better address officer misconduct. In March 2025, Commissioner Jessica Tisch said that the NYPD imposed discipline in 100% of substantiated cases prosecuted by the CCRB.[3] The NYPD has also shifted from sending officers who conducted unconstitutional stops solely to retraining, imposing stricter disciplinary measures such as suspension in some cases. However, gaps remain. For example, after CCRB substantiated charges following a Force complaint, NYPD’s Deputy Commissioner of Trials, Rosemarie Maldonado, found that Lt. Jonathan Rivera’s shooting was not justified under New York law, found him guilty of Assault in the First Degree, and recommended termination in a March 5, 2025 decision. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch reversed that decision, finding Rivera not guilty on all specifications on August 15, 2025, and allowed him to remain employed as an NYPD police officer. Read on HERE
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Future of Policing 