John,
Internet anonymity is often used to spew racist, anti-semitic, homophobic, and otherwise bigoted sentiments without consequence. Rant, a popular law enforcement forum, is such a refuge for many within the ranks of the New York Police Department.
But when it’s a high-ranking official in the NYPD making these anonymous posts — someone in charge of the office responsible for investigating employment and harassment claims, no less — that grossly violates not just basic decency, but the trust that communities put in public servants to do what's right.
My investigation found that Deputy Inspector James F. Kobel made hundreds of disgusting posts which would shock the conscience of any decent American. On a forum full of vitriolic and racist content, he stood out. Mr. Kobel ruthlessly and consistently disparaged Black and Brown communities, Hasidic Jews, and other groups that he was sworn to serve and protect, in one of the most diverse cities in the world — all while being entrusted with the responsibility of creating a safe and inclusive environment for others.
As a consequence of my investigation, Mr. Kobel has been relieved of his command of the Equal Employment Opportunity Division, and is currently on modified assignment while the department investigates his conduct. At the conclusion of their internal inquiry, I fully expect accountability that is satisfactory to the people of this great city.
It’s the responsibility of public servants to aggressively pursue and stamp out injustice wherever they find it. The last four years may have been a boon for individuals who subscribe to Donald Trump’s dark and divisive vision of America, but this election was a clear repudiation of that vision.
As we put the last four years behind us and pursue our progressive agenda, I will work each and every day to defeat hate and bigotry.
I look forward to beginning that effort in Congress come January.
Thanks,
Ritchie
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