Retired NYPD Inspector Faces Controversy In Congressional Campaign

Members of the NYPD patrol in Times Square in New York

A retired inspector from the New York Police Department, who is running as a Republican for a key congressional district in the Hudson Valley, is under scrutiny for her conduct during her time on the force.

Alison Esposito, through her campaign, has denied allegations stemming from two controversial incidents that have recently come to light.

In one case from 2016, it was alleged that Esposito and another officer were involved in an incident where an unlawful detention and frisking of a minor took place in Harlem. Esposito's campaign manager refuted these claims, stating that the individual in question was a 17-year-old who resisted arrest and physically assaulted Esposito.

Esposito denies claims, citing resistance and assault by individuals involved.

Allegations of unlawful detention and excessive force during her time in the NYPD.

Settlement of cases involving wrongful detainment and excessive force for $120,000.

Another incident from 2003 involved Esposito and other officers detaining three women from Philadelphia after a misunderstanding at a department store. The women accused the officers of wrongful detainment and excessive force during the incident.

The city eventually settled both cases for a total of $120,000.

Esposito's campaign manager criticized her opponent, Rep. Pat Ryan, for allegedly using these incidents to tarnish her 25-year career in the NYPD for political gain.

Both candidates have emphasized their law enforcement and military backgrounds in their campaigns, positioning themselves as rule-of-law advocates in the district.

Esposito's campaign also accused criminals of attempting to shift blame onto law enforcement and forcing costly legal battles, leading municipalities to settle cases to avoid prolonged litigation.

On the other hand, Ryan has refuted some of Esposito's claims, including allegations about his stance on immigration policies during his time as county executive.

As the election approaches, both candidates are vying for support in a district that could play a crucial role in determining the balance of power in the House of Representatives.

Esposito has highlighted her experience in the NYPD as a qualification to address issues like immigration, particularly in Orange County where she claims there are concerns about crimes related to migrants.