In a disturbing case of jealousy and abuse of power within the ranks of the New York Police Department (NYPD), a Bronx sergeant, Milton Valerio, and his colleague, Anajess Alvarez, have filed a lawsuit alleging discrimination and harassment by their superiors.
The story began when Valerio, 40, and Alvarez, 28, began a relationship after meeting at the transit station house where they both worked near Yankee Stadium in 2019. Despite their attempts to keep their romance low-key, jealousy and interference from their colleagues, particularly from Alvarez’s married boss, Lt. Christian Hernandez, soon escalated into a nightmare.
According to the lawsuit filed by Valerio in Manhattan Supreme Court, Hernandez exhibited obsessive behavior after Alvarez revealed her pregnancy in October 2020. He allegedly abused NYPD resources by using plate-reading systems to track Alvarez’s movements and surveilling vehicles assigned to their command. Additionally, Capt. Salvatore Marchese joined in the harassment, criticizing Alvarez for getting pregnant and pressuring her to reveal the identity of the father.
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The situation worsened when Hernandez discovered Alvarez’s relationship with Valerio and subsequently targeted him for retaliation. Valerio faced baseless accusations and harassment, including being unfairly stripped of overtime opportunities and promotions. Alvarez, meanwhile, endured punitive measures such as being reassigned to foot patrol during her pregnancy.
The toxic environment created by the harassment took a toll on both Valerio and Alvarez, leading to legal action against the NYPD. While Alvarez settled her sexual harassment lawsuit against the city, Hernandez, and Marchese for $225,000 in August 2023, Valerio’s case highlights the failure of the NYPD to address systemic issues of sexual harassment and abuse of power within the department.
The couple’s ordeal sheds light on the challenges faced by officers, particularly women, in a male-dominated and often toxic work environment. Despite their dedication to serving the community, they encountered hostility and discrimination from their own colleagues and superiors.
The lawsuit underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform within the NYPD to address pervasive issues of sexual harassment and abuse of power. It also highlights the importance of creating a culture of respect and professionalism within law enforcement agencies to ensure the well-being and safety of all officers.
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As Valerio and Alvarez continue to seek justice for the mistreatment they endured, their case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and fairness within the New York Police Department.