Ex-NYPD Detective Sentenced for Abusing Power

Matthew Lambert, a former New York City police detective, received a sentence of two years of probation following his guilty plea to multiple charges. The offenses include three counts of official misconduct and one count of receiving unlawful gratuities. As part of his sentence, Lambert is required to complete counseling and 100 hours of community service.

Prosecutors detailed Lambert's disturbing conduct, which involved sending inappropriate text messages to victims while investigating their cases. He also abused his authority by engaging in a sexual encounter with a woman he had arrested. This woman was later issued a desk appearance ticket instead of being taken to central booking, after which Lambert shared inappropriate content and had sex with her.

Lambert, who served with the NYPD since 2014 and became a detective in 2022, resigned in 2025. His plea agreement prohibits him from seeking recertification as a police officer in New York State. District Attorney Alvin Bragg emphasized that such conduct is unacceptable for law enforcement officers.