Howard Redmond, the former head of security for New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, has been suspended without pay amidst an ongoing obstruction investigation led by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. The NYPD confirmed Redmond's suspension to Fox News Digital, following reports from the New York Daily News about an internal email notifying commands of the action. While the email lacked specific details, sources suggest Redmond was recently interviewed by Bragg's office. Investigators have reportedly spoken with all NYPD detectives who served on de Blasio's security detail alongside Redmond.
This investigation stems from a 2021 referral by the New York City Department of Investigation (DOI), which also issued a report accusing de Blasio of utilizing his security detail as a "personal concierge service." The report cited instances of officers assisting with personal tasks, such as moving his daughter and transporting his son to Yale University. Redmond, who reportedly earned over $230,000 last year with the NYPD, has been under investigation since this referral. This incident follows a recent ruling requiring de Blasio to repay $475,000 for misusing public funds on his security detail during his unsuccessful presidential campaign. The Conflicts of Interest Board mandated the reimbursement of $320,000 for travel expenses and an additional $155,000 in fines.
De Blasio's attorney, Andrew G. Celli Jr., has contested the ruling, labeling it as "reckless and arbitrary" and exceeding the board's authority. Celli argues that security needs for public figures are paramount, citing political violence like the January 6th insurrection and threats against officials as justification for the security detail's expenses. The Manhattan District Attorney's office has yet to comment on the ongoing investigation into Redmond.
