NYPD captain dismissed for sending explicit texts and lewd images to a detective.

An NYPD captain has been dismissed from his position due to severe misconduct involving inappropriate communications with a subordinate. Internal documents from the New York Police Department reveal that Captain Brian Flynn was terminated for engaging in sexting with a detective, which included explicit messages and photographs.

Commissioner Jessica Tisch officially relieved Flynn of his duties in April 2023, marking a significant professional setback for the officer who was just months away from completing twenty years of service. Such a termination not only stripped Flynn of his rank but also disqualified him from receiving the health benefits and pension that accompany long-term service.

In the efforts to mitigate the consequences of his actions, Flynn pleaded guilty, hoping to either save his job or, at the very least, secure retirement benefits. During a testimony at a mitigation hearing at One Police Plaza, he expressed regret, accepting full responsibility for his actions and acknowledging the embarrassment caused to both his family and the NYPD.

However, NYPD Trial Judge Jeff Adler, who presided over the case, emphasized that Flynn’s traumatic past, which included experiences of abuse and the tragic death of his mother, could not serve as justification for his behavior. Adler characterized Flynn’s actions as egregious, noting a continuous exchange of sexually graphic messages and images, which took place while the captain was on duty, neglecting his responsibilities toward public safety.

The case against Flynn was further complicated by ongoing legal proceedings initiated by the detective who accused him. She filed a lawsuit, alleging that she had faced sexual harassment from Flynn since April 2021, shortly after he took command of her unit. The lawsuit claims that Flynn had sent numerous explicit images and messages, often while both were on active duty, and that he attempted to leverage his authority by offering rewards, such as time off, in exchange for compliance with his inappropriate requests.

The detective’s legal representative, John Scola, asserted that Flynn’s conduct constituted a serious abuse of power. He highlighted the importance of addressing such culture within the law enforcement community, advocating for significant reforms beyond mere damage control in instances of misconduct.

While the case serves as a notable instance of internal accountability within the NYPD, it raises broader questions regarding the protection of women in law enforcement and the ongoing need for systemic change. Flynn’s termination underscores the Department’s commitment to addressing allegations of sexual harassment and maintaining ethical standards among its officers. As investigations continue, the implications for departmental policies and cultural practices remain a focus of public and professional scrutiny.