NYPD detective arrested for groping a woman in police headquarters.

A detective with the New York Police Department (NYPD) is facing charges of sexual abuse following an incident that occurred at police headquarters in Lower Manhattan. According to information from officials, Detective Paul Damico, age 51, purportedly groped a female officer while she was present in the precinct on February 5.

Details surrounding the incident indicate that Damico approached the woman around 10:30 a.m. and allegedly grabbed her right buttocks. Reports maintain that the female officer, who is also a member of the NYPD, was caught off guard by the actions of the detective. The complaint filed with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office noted that the woman turned around and realized that Damico was the only person in the vicinity at that time.

In reaction to the situation, Damico reportedly exclaimed an apology before leaving the scene. Authorities apprehended him on Thursday, charging him with forcible touching and third-degree sexual abuse, both classified as misdemeanors. Following a court appearance, a Manhattan criminal court judge released Damico without bail, concurrently issuing an order of protection for the victim. This order prohibits him from any direct or indirect contact with her for an indefinite period. He is scheduled to return to court at the end of May to address the charges.

At the time of the alleged offense, Damico was assigned to the NYPD’s Criminal Justice Bureau, where he served as a driver for Chief Ruben Beltran. In March, he was reassigned to the NYPD’s Medical Division. Being a second-grade detective, Damico has been a member of the NYPD since 1996 and earned an annual salary exceeding 6,000 last year, as per city records.

The head of the NYPD’s detectives union, Scott Munro, refrained from commenting on the circumstances surrounding the arrest. An attempt to reach Damico’s legal representation for a statement was unsuccessful.

This case arises amid heightened scrutiny and discussion regarding workplace conduct and accountability within law enforcement agencies, highlighting the need for ongoing reforms that address issues of harassment and abuse of power. The New York Police Department continues to face challenges in fostering a culture of trust and safety, both within its ranks and in its relations with the communities it serves.

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