🚔

Testimony of Michael Dowd on Police Corruption

Dec 2, 2024

Lecture on Police Corruption and Testimony of Michael Dowd

Introduction

  • Mr. Dowden sworn in for testimony.
  • Former NYPD officer, Michael Dowd, testifies about his corrupt activities.

Background

  • Michael Dowd served over 10 years with NYPD.
  • Engaged in multiple criminal activities while on duty, including:
    • Theft
    • Extortion
    • Drug trafficking
    • Protecting drug operations
    • Personal drug use

Context of the Time

  • 1980s New York City was a high-crime area, particularly East New York, Brooklyn.
  • The 75th precinct was infamous for high crime rates, including murders and police shootings.

Michael Dowd's Early Career

  • Joined NYPD in 1982; integrity training was minimal and not taken seriously.
  • "Good" police officers were those who would not report others.
  • Formed strong bonds with fellow officers for survival in the dangerous precinct.

Corruption and Criminal Activities

  • Dowd began taking bribes early in his career.
  • Engaged in large-scale corruption with partner Ken Urell.
  • Involved with local drug dealers, notably Adam Diaz and Baron Perez.
  • Provided protection and information to drug organizations.

Internal Affairs and Investigation

  • Internal Affairs had issues tracking corruption due to lack of serious integrity measures.
  • Dowd was openly involved in corrupt activities, enjoying a lavish lifestyle.
  • Kenny Urell eventually wore a wire to record Dowd, leading to Dowd's arrest.

Legal Consequences

  • Dowd faced numerous charges, including conspiracy to sell drugs.
  • He was arrested after a major investigation revealed his illegal activities.

Reflections and Impact

  • The 75 precinct scandal highlighted severe issues in NYPD's handling of corruption.
  • Dowd reflects on the duality of being both a cop and a criminal.

Conclusion

  • Dowd was sentenced to 16 years for his corrupt activities.
  • The scandal underscored failures in accountability and integrity within the NYPD.

These notes summarize the testimony and the surrounding context of police corruption involving Michael Dowd, as detailed in the lecture. The focus is on the systemic issues within the NYPD during the 1980s and early 1990s, contributing to widespread corruption among officers.

Full transcript