NYPD Chief Under Investigation for Allowing Detective’s Special Assignment

An investigation by the NYPD’s Internal Affairs has been launched following revelations regarding a special assignment that allowed Detective Jaenice Smith to care for her terminally ill mother for nearly a year. This arrangement has raised questions about the actions of Scott Henderson, Chief of Brooklyn North, who is alleged to have approved the detail.

Detective Smith, 51, was assigned to a special police detail for her mother, Barbara Ann Smith, who served as the president of the 83rd Precinct Community Council. This detail lasted for 11 months prior to Barbara’s death in December 2023, followed by an additional three months of bereavement leave for Smith. The investigation was reportedly sparked by an anonymous tip earlier this year indicating that Smith was not reporting for duty, leading the NYPD to place her on desk duty and seek the return of approximately $150,000 in salary.

The situation has not only prompted scrutiny of Henderson but also appears to have influenced his decision to retire. Originally, a ceremony to honor his career was scheduled for July 24, 2024, but it has since been postponed, reportedly at Henderson’s request.

Supporters of Henderson, including local pastors, have expressed their anger over the investigation. Many believe that the pressure for his retirement stems from Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Chief of Department John Chell. Rev. Kevin McCall, a known ally of Henderson, announced plans for a community celebration to honor the chief’s contributions, explicitly stating that the police commissioner and Chief Chell would not be invited.

As the investigation continues, an NYPD spokesperson confirmed that it is ongoing but declined to provide further details. A lawyer representing Detective Smith has not commented on the matter. However, sources familiar with the situation have indicated that Smith has maintained that her arrangement to care for her mother was fully authorized by Henderson.

The controversy began when Smith was placed under scrutiny for her absence from police headquarters. Investigators have reportedly gathered numerous text messages confirming that Henderson sanctioned her special assignment, citing her mother’s significant role in fostering community relations with the NYPD.

Barbara Ann Smith was a well-respected figure in the Bushwick area, and following her passing at the age of 77, the precinct has honored her legacy by renaming its muster room in her memory. The New York City Council also voted on July 14, 2025, to rename Decatur St. between Central and Wilson Avenue as Barbara Ann Smith Way.

Detective Smith joined the NYPD in July 2005 and has served in various capacities, including assignments in the Personnel Bureau and Internal Affairs. Throughout her career, she has made 16 arrests, three of which were for felonies.

In February 2024, as it became evident that her mother was gravely ill, Smith was reassigned to care for her. According to sources, Henderson assigned Smith to her mother’s detail without her requesting it. Once on the special detail, Smith reportedly maintained regular communication with her command. The arrangement was characterized by some sources as transparent, with multiple supervisors allegedly aware of her assignment.

Following Barbara Smith’s death, Detective Smith was granted bereavement leave. However, the Internal Affairs investigation proceeded, leading to her reassignment to desk duty in Queens Courts on March 27, 2024. The NYPD subsequently filed charges against her for time theft and is pursuing the repayment of her earnings during the special assignment.

As the investigation unfolds, Henderson has reportedly downplayed his involvement in sanctioning the assignment, while Smith’s legal team is advocating for her ability to retire as scheduled later this month. Sources close to Smith indicate that she feels disheartened by the strict actions taken against her, believing that she acted in good faith under Henderson’s approval.

The outcome of this investigation may have significant implications for both Smith’s career and Henderson’s legacy within the NYPD.