NYPD attorney highlights police commissioner’s performance in handling civilian complaints in response to City Council critiques.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) faced a rigorous examination of its practices and accountability mechanisms during a recent City Council hearing, as Deputy Commissioner for Legal Matters Michael Gerber defended Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch’s performance amidst growing criticism. Gerber emphasized that under Tisch’s leadership, the department has made significant strides in addressing civilian complaints and enhancing its disciplinary action processes.

Gerber highlighted that Tisch has effectively minimized the closure of substantiated complaints just before the 18-month statute of limitations, a previously common practice that saw 800 cases closed prior to her tenure. In a noticeable shift, only 24 cases have been closed this year under Tisch’s administration, compared to 93 in 2024, which included actions taken by former commissioner Edward Caban. This change reflects a broader commitment to transparency and accountability within the NYPD.

Further metrics indicate a strengthening relationship between the NYPD and the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB). Gerber noted that the department now concurs with CCRB’s disciplinary findings 76% of the time in 2025, a substantial increase from the 30% agreement rate in 2024, while also reducing the time taken to impose disciplinary measures.

In terms of officer terminations, Tisch has exceeded the number of officers fired in previous years, with 48 officers dismissed so far in 2025, compared to 46 in 2024 and 63 in 2023. The Deputy Commissioner reinforced that the department’s goal is to maintain a fair and effective disciplinary system, claiming sweeping measures are being taken to achieve this objective.

Despite these assertions, Council Member Lincoln Restler challenged the NYPD’s record, noting a 60% increase in civilian complaints since the advent of Mayor Adams’ administration. He pointed out that the uptick in complaints correlates with an apparent shift in the department’s policing strategy, leading to greater public scrutiny of officer conduct.

Jonathan Darche, the executive director of the CCRB, acknowledged advances in the department’s records management but urged for improved access to police databases and body-worn camera footage. The CCRB has also expressed a desire for final disciplinary authority, a power currently vested in the police commissioner.

The NYPD’s accountability was further scrutinized over a series of deaths in custody, including a controversial decision by Tisch to exonerate Lt. Jonathan Rivera, who fatally shot an unarmed civilian in 2019. Comparatively, Council Member Tiffany Caban questioned the rationale behind overriding the judgment of the deputy commissioner responsible for trials. Meanwhile, Council Member Carmen De La Rosa remarked that Tisch’s handling of these issues undermines the public’s faith in the NYPD’s accountability systems.

Adding to the concerns, Gerber disclosed that the city’s Department of Investigation is looking into recent in-custody fatalities. Public defender Claire Thomas recounted a disturbing interaction with a client, Christopher Nieves, who died in custody after requesting medical attention, illuminating broader issues surrounding the treatment of individuals in police custody and advocating for a systemic change within the NYPD.

The ongoing dialogue surrounding police reform continues to be a pressing issue in New York City, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in law enforcement practices. With the NYPD facing heightened scrutiny, the path forward will require concerted efforts to ensure that all New Yorkers feel secure and protected under the law.