The NYPD's Famous Morgue

Boys CaseBy Joe Tacopina

Introduction

As an attorney, Joe Tacopina has been

involved in a number of high-profile

cases, including the “Morgue Boys” case

in 1995 and the Abner Louima case in

2000. In the latter case, Joe Tacopina

represented a police officer charged with

covering up the brutality of other officers

in the case. The charges were

overturned on appeal, making it one of

the most famous cases in the history of

the New York Police Department.

Conclusion

In August of 1993, the New York Police Department (NYPD) was involved in a scandal involving a number of officers who became known as the Morgue Boys. The group was allegedly involved in numerous corrupt activities. The Morgue Boys name stems from an abandoned coffin factory where members purportedly divided illegal profits and spoils. Despite numerous charges, no evidence held up in court. Of the 12 accused officers, only three were formally charged. Soon after charges were made, all three officers were completely cleared of all offenses, thus restoring the reputation of the NYPD.