Shawn Inglima for New York Daily News
Chief John Chell at 1 Police Plaza last month. (Shawn Inglima for New York Daily News)
The NYPD’s Chief of Patrol, John Chell, has embarked on a bold new venture, inaugurating a personal social media profile that hints at possible political aspirations post-retirement. Rumors persist, swirling around sources that suggest Chell may transition into the role of political commentator — a significant shift from his current law enforcement duties.
His freshly minted account on X, unveiled just last Thursday, boasts a striking profile header featuring a bald eagle poised majestically against the backdrop of the American flag. Within the confines of his bio, Chell labels himself an “active law enforcement leader” and an “independent thinker” who staunchly promotes the idea that “facts matter.” However, there’s a pointed disclaimer present: “Opinions are my own,” highlighting a nuanced differentiation between his personal voice and official stance.
It’s essential to note that NYPD regulations strictly prohibit officers from utilizing department resources for political discourse, a rule that Chell has faced scrutiny over in the past. Earlier this year, he found himself in a firestorm of controversy for wielding his official NYPD handle to critique Democratic figures and journalists, a move that some saw as an egregious breach of protocol. Notably, he targeted Queens Councilwoman Tiffany Caban in a post, declaring she “hates our city” and imploring his followers to engage politically against her.
With the establishment of his new X account, sporting a profile picture in civilian attire, Chell appears to be carving out a space for more unrestrained expressions of opinion, a notion he appeared to allude to in a LinkedIn update where he invited followers to join him for what he hopes will be “some enlightening conversation.”
His foray into personal social media coincided with attendance at a Duran Duran concert at Madison Square Garden, which he shared with a vibrant post. This timing is particularly curious as whispers grow louder regarding his potential pivot to a pundit role on a news network upon his departure from the NYPD — though the specific network remains undisclosed, and retirement plans linger in ambiguity.
This Sunday he made headlines yet again, appearing on Newsmax, a right-wing outlet often criticized for promoting pro-Trump narratives, especially during an event that stirred considerable political tension. Donning his uniform amid a rally for ex-President Donald Trump, Chell discussed security measures, exuding confidence that everything was “great” and that the atmosphere was decidedly peaceful, even as he warned potential disruptors, “Not today.”
In the wake of his springtime social media controversies, calls for disciplinary action against Chell emerged, led by a coalition of city lawmakers who argued his conduct violated departmental regulations. Yet, New York City Mayor Eric Adams came to Chell’s defense, praising his “style” and later reaffirming that Chell’s appearance on Newsmax was not out of bounds, emphasizing the inherent subjectivity of personal biases.
As the dialogue surrounding Chell’s role as a law enforcement leader continues to evolve, the intersection of his professional duties and emerging political persona poses intriguing questions about the future dynamics of both the NYPD and the broader political landscape in New York City.
