NYPD Officer Fired After Shooting at Girlfriend’s Husband During Brooklyn Car Chase

An officer with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) has been dismissed from the force following an incident in which he discharged his weapon during an off-duty car chase involving his girlfriend’s estranged husband. Officer Kevin Marcial, who has a history of disciplinary issues, was terminated after a ruling by an NYPD judge concluded that his actions demonstrated a severe lapse in judgment incompatible with ongoing service as a police officer.

The case stems from an altercation that took place on April 21, 2022. As detailed in documentation from the NYPD, Marcial has been with the department since July 2005 and was working at the 101st Precinct in Far Rockaway, Queens, on the day of the incident. After finishing his shift, Marcial went to Brooklyn to deliver groceries to his girlfriend. Upon dropping her off near her vehicle, he reportedly noticed a dark-colored car following him, which he believed to be driven by her estranged husband.

During a chase through the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn, Marcial fired his service weapon at the vehicle. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but Marcial subsequently fled the scene and failed to immediately notify authorities about the incident. Initially avoiding a direct report, he ultimately contacted the police after some time, as did the estranged husband, who provided officers with the license plate number of Marcial’s vehicle.

Although Marcial was not criminally charged, he faced suspension pending an internal investigation. He was later reassigned to modified duty, where he monitored surveillance cameras in a public housing bureau.

In the administrative hearing, NYPD judge Vanessa Facio-Lince recommended his termination, stating that discharging a firearm in such a context indicates behavior unbecoming of a police officer. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch upheld this recommendation and signed the order for Marcial’s dismissal, which became effective on February 18. The decision was made public through an NYPD webpage detailing the case.

The recent disciplinary action adds to Marcial’s record, which includes previous infractions, such as issues related to his conduct while on duty. In a notable prior incident, he had faced consequences for being seen sleeping while on guard duty for a prisoner, as well as for improperly registering a personal vehicle. This termination underscores the NYPD’s ongoing efforts to maintain accountability and uphold the standards of conduct expected of its members.

This case serves as a significant reminder of the responsibilities tied to law enforcement positions, where public safety must remain paramount. It illustrates the complexities surrounding issues of accountability and professionalism within police departments. Further commentary from Marcial regarding his dismissal has not been available at this time.

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