NYPD officer under investigation for borrowing cash during a traffic stop in a second incident.

The New York Police Department is currently addressing serious allegations against Officer Armando Silvestre, who has been arrested for official misconduct stemming from his interactions with citizens during traffic stops. Following an initial incident on May 1, in which Silvestre was accused of soliciting a ,700 loan from a motorist he pulled over in Queens, further investigations have unveiled another troubling allegation involving a separate loan of ,500 that he failed to repay. Reports indicate that he used his police badge as collateral for this loan, which occurred nearly three months prior to the traffic stop incident.

The loan was reportedly issued by Vincent Ortiz, a 56-year-old Brooklyn resident who described Silvestre as a policeman in distress. Ortiz, who has mobility impairments and uses crutches, recounted being introduced to Silvestre through a friend who assured him of the officer’s need for financial assistance. Silvestre claimed to have accumulated significant fines related to the DMV due to his failure to return a license plate belonging to his deceased grandmother. He indicated that his commanding officer threatened disciplinary action unless he resolved his financial obligations swiftly.

Ortiz has expressed regret for the decision to loan the officer money, especially given the circumstances surrounding its procurement. He described a peculiar agreement where he requested Silvestre’s badge as collateral, feeling pressured by the officer’s position and personal disclosures during their discussions. As evidence of their agreement, Ortiz took a photograph showcasing Silvestre’s badge next to the cash, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Further complicating matters, Ortiz has not received any repayment from Silvestre. Over time, Ortiz reported that Silvestre conveyed feelings of despair regarding his financial situation, allegedly making troubling statements that hinted at suicidal thoughts. These claims have raised additional concerns about the officer’s mental health and state of well-being.

NYPD Internal Affairs is currently investigating the matter, as it poses significant implications for officer conduct and public trust. Silvestre cannot be criminally charged for failing to repay a personal loan made while off duty, but Ortiz has indicated plans to pursue a civil lawsuit to recover the lost funds. This incident has fueled ongoing discussions about officer accountability in the department.

As of now, Silvestre, who joined the NYPD in November 2020 and earned a salary of approximately 2,972 in 2024, remains suspended without pay while the investigation unfolds. His recent actions, compounded by his initial arrest for soliciting a loan, continue to draw scrutiny as the NYPD strives to uphold the integrity of its officers. The circumstances of his cases emphasize the need for continued oversight and the enforcement of ethical standards within the police force.