NYPD pension program vulnerable to disability fraud, probe finds

A probe by the New York City Department of Investigation (DOI) has found that the NYPD’s $3.6 billion pension program is highly vulnerable to disability fraud. The investigation revealed that some officers receive accident disability benefits while engaging in activities inconsistent with their disability status.

The report highlighted that annual disability payments can reach as much as $350,000, which is significantly higher than the standard pension of 50% of a final average salary awarded to non-disabled retirees. The DOI noted that the medical review process for obtaining a city government parking permit is actually more rigorous than the standards used to determine disability for the police pension system.

Several high-ranking officials who served under former Mayor Eric Adams were identified as recipients of exceptionally large disability pensions despite holding managerial roles. One such recipient is former Chief of Department John Chell, who was awarded a $295,000 annual pension following a foot injury sustained during an NYPD operation on Randall’s Island in 2024.

DOI Commissioner Nadia Shihata stated that while the city intends to support officers who are rightfully injured on the job, the current administration of these benefits creates significant risks for improper payments.