A recent investigation by the New York City Department of Investigation (DOI) has highlighted significant vulnerabilities in the New York Police Department’s disability pension system, raising concerns about potential misuse and improper payments. The review specifically examined the awarding of three-quarter disability pensions, which provide benefits exceeding the standard 50% of a retiree’s final average salary and can reach annual payments of up to $350,000.

The DOI inquiry, initiated after receiving allegations in 2025, found that several NYPD officers receiving accident disability benefits were engaged in activities inconsistent with their claimed disabilities. The investigation pointed to high-ranking officials, including some who held managerial positions under former Mayor Eric Adams, as recipients of unusually large disability pensions. Notably, former Chief of Department John Chell was granted a $295,000 yearly disability pension following a foot injury sustained during an NYPD operation involving migrants on Randall’s Island in 2024.

According to DOI Commissioner Nadia Shihata, the current administration of accident disability pensions creates risks for improper payments and lacks the rigorous standards found in comparable law enforcement retirement systems, such as those used for state police. Shihata emphasized that while the city supports officers receiving rightful accident benefits for legitimate injuries, the existing pension fund procedures are vulnerable to exploitation.

The disability pension program for the NYPD is a substantial fiscal undertaking, with the Police Pension Fund providing retirement payments to over 50,000 retired officers. In fiscal year 2025, total pension disbursements reached $3.59 billion.

The report also referenced a history of disability pension scandals involving first responders, including cases where individuals receiving benefits were later seen participating in physically demanding activities. One prominent example cited was former NYPD Officer Glenn Lieberman, who pleaded guilty to grand larceny after it was discovered he had collected Social Security disability payments while engaging in recreational activities, including a widely publicized photo of him on a Jet Ski.

The DOI’s findings underscore the need for reforms in the oversight and administration of disability pensions within the NYPD to prevent abuse and ensure that benefits are allocated in accordance with officers’ legitimate health conditions.