Frank Serpico: The Honest Cop Who Exposed Corruption in the NYPD

Frank Serpico was shot on 3 February 1971 during a narcotics raid in Brooklyn, an incident that later became a symbol of deep-rooted corruption within the New York City Police Department (NYPD). The shooting occurred after years of Serpico raising concerns about bribery and misconduct among officers.

An Idealistic Officer

Serpico, the son of Italian immigrants, joined the NYPD in 1959 with the aim of serving his community. In 1965, he became a plain-clothes officer, where he was first exposed to widespread corruption within the force.

He discovered that some officers were accepting regular payoffs from illegal gambling operations, with senior officers also benefiting from the scheme.

Whistleblowing and Isolation

In 1967, Serpico reported evidence of corruption to his superiors. Instead of receiving support, he was bullied, threatened, and increasingly isolated by fellow officers.

He later teamed up with another officer, David Durk, and in 1970 they provided evidence to the New York Times, triggering public outrage and forcing city officials to act.

The Knapp Commission

Following the revelations, New York Mayor John Lindsay appointed the Knapp Commission to investigate police corruption. The inquiry found corruption to be widespread across the NYPD.

The commission identified two types of corrupt officers: “grass-eaters,” who accepted small bribes, and “meat-eaters,” who actively sought large payoffs from serious criminal activity.

The Shooting Incident

Despite the ongoing inquiry, Serpico remained on active duty. During a raid in February 1971, he was shot in the face after entering an apartment alone.

Reports later suggested fellow officers failed to immediately assist him, leaving a civilian to call for emergency services.

Aftermath and Legacy

Serpico survived but suffered lifelong injuries and partial hearing loss. He left the NYPD in 1972 on a disability pension.

His story later inspired the 1973 film Serpico, starring Al Pacino. Decades later, Serpico was recognised as one of the greatest heroes in American cinema history.