NYPD Officer Files Lawsuit Against the Force Following Widespread Sharing of Private Photo Sent to Former Lieutenant Partner 12 Years Ago
In a shocking turn of events, NYPD officer Alisa Bajraktarevic has filed a lawsuit against the department, claiming that her career has been ruined after a private topless photo she sent to her former partner, Lt. Mark Rivera, was shared among fellow officers. Bajraktarevic joined the department in 2012 and alleges that Rivera shared the photo in a group text with other cops, causing it to spread like wildfire. Despite the photo resurfacing recently, Bajraktarevic claims that union delegates urged her not to report the incident, leaving her feeling bullied and unsupported.
The incident surrounding the resurfaced photo occurred when Bajraktarevic was accused of interfering with officers who showed up while she was with her then-boyfriend, Kelvin Hernandez. The situation escalated when cops surrounded her car, prompting both Bajraktarevic and Hernandez to inquire about the reason for their presence. Hernandez was charged with resisting arrest, and Bajraktarevic found herself at the center of an investigation. It was during this time that the topless photo began circulating among NYPD group chats and text message chains, along with personal information such as her parents’ address.
Bajraktarevic expressed her frustration and distress over the situation, stating, “You do things in confidence. It doesn’t warrant you being treated like a piece of sh-t.” She believes that the sharing of the photo amounts to bullying and feels that it is indicative of a larger issue within the department. Bajraktarevic claims that she is not the first nor the last officer to experience such treatment and questions when enough will be enough. She worries that someone may harm themselves as a result of this kind of harassment.
Despite her suspension and the order to disassociate herself from Hernandez, Bajraktarevic insists that he is not a drug dealer. However, the focus of her lawsuit is on the fact that the NYPD has failed to investigate the officers who shared her topless image without her consent, which is now against the law. Her attorney, John Scola, argues that this “illegal invasion of privacy” highlights the department’s disregard for the treatment of its female officers.
Seeking unspecified damages from the city, Rivera, and another supervisor who she claims sexually harassed her in 2017, Bajraktarevic hopes to shed light on the issue of bullying within the police force. She believes that it is an aspect that is often overlooked and finds it disgusting. The city Law Department has agreed to review the lawsuit, while the NYPD has stated that it does not tolerate discrimination or sexual harassment in any form and is committed to respectful work environments for its diverse workforce.
This case brings attention to the mistreatment faced by women officers and the need for accountability within police departments. It serves as a reminder that actions have consequences, especially when they involve the invasion of privacy and harassment. Bajraktarevic’s bravery in speaking out against the department and seeking justice is commendable. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to address these issues and ensure that all officers are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of gender.
