Serpico

Frank Serpico is an American former New York City Police Department officer noted for exposing corruption within the NYPD and contributing to major reform in the department. Born in 1936 in Brooklyn, Serpico joined the NYPD in 1959 and became known for his refusal to engage in bribery and cover-ups, ultimately choosing to report misconduct despite personal risk.

During the 1960s and early 1970s, Serpico openly challenged the pervasive corruption within the department. His efforts and the attention they drew highlighted the dangers faced by whistleblowers within law enforcement and contributed to a broader inquiry into NYPD practices.

On April 3, 1971, Serpico was severely wounded when he was shot in the face by a fellow officer during a bank robbery in Brooklyn. He survived after emergency surgery, and the incident brought national scrutiny to police corruption and the need for reform. The Knapp Commission, established in response to such concerns, investigated corruption within the NYPD and published its findings in 1972, leading to changes in supervision, internal affairs, and accountability procedures.

Serpico’s story entered popular culture with the 1973 film Serpico, starring Al Pacino, which depicted his struggle and the repercussions of his whistleblowing. He also published a memoir, Serpico (1973), detailing his experiences.

In later years, Serpico has worked as a public speaker and advocate for police reform and accountability, and he has lived in various places, including Europe. His legacy is closely associated with whistleblower protections and debates over ethics and corruption in policing.