Frank Serpico: The Whistleblower Who Took on Police Corruption

A Crusader Against Corruption

Frank Serpico is a name synonymous with bravery, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of justice. As a retired New York Police Department (NYPD) detective, Serpico is best known for his daring whistleblowing on police corruption, which shook the very foundations of the NYPD in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Exposing the Rot

Working as a plainclothes police officer in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan, Serpico was determined to expose the rampant vice racketeering that had infested the police force. In 1967, he reported credible evidence of widespread police corruption to his superiors, but his warnings fell on deaf ears. Undeterred, Serpico continued to gather evidence, eventually contributing to a front-page story in The New York Times in 1970 that drew national attention to the problem. Mayor John V. Lindsay responded by appointing a five-member panel to investigate accusations of police corruption, which became the Knapp Commission.

A Near-Fatal Encounter

On February 3, 1971, Serpico's efforts nearly cost him his life. During an arrest attempt at 778 Driggs Avenue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, he was shot in the face by Edgar Echevarria, who was subsequently convicted of attempted murder. The bullet severed an auditory nerve, leaving bullet fragments lodged in Serpico's brain. The circumstances surrounding the shooting raised suspicions that Serpico had been led to the apartment by his colleagues to be murdered, but no formal investigation was conducted.

A Celebrity Whistleblower

Serpico's fame reached new heights with the release of the 1973 film Serpico, in which he was portrayed by Al Pacino, based on the book of the same name by Peter Maas. The film cemented Serpico's status as a hero and a symbol of resistance against corruption.

Early Life and Influences

Born on April 14, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York City, Serpico was the youngest child of Italian immigrants Vincenzo and Maria Giovanna Serpico, from Marigliano, Naples, Campania. At 17, he enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed for two years in South Korea as an infantryman. After his military service, he worked as a part-time private investigator and a youth counselor while attending Brooklyn College.

Awards and Honors

On June 27, 2013, the USA Section of ANPS National Association of Italian State Police awarded Serpico the Saint Michael Archangel Prize. During the ceremony, he gained Italian citizenship and received an Italian passport.

Legacy

Frank Serpico's courageous whistleblowing and unwavering commitment to justice have left an indelible mark on American law enforcement. His actions led to reforms and the establishment of the NYPD's Internal Affairs Division. Today, Serpico remains an inspiration to those who value integrity and transparency in public service.

• Frank Serpico's story has been an inspiration to many, including the creators of the TV series Serpico (1976-1977) and the film Serpico (1973).
• Serpico has been recognized for his contributions to law enforcement and his advocacy for whistleblowers' rights.
• In 2018, Serpico was honored with the prestigious Ridenhour Prize for Courage, recognizing his bravery in exposing corruption and promoting accountability.

Impact on Pop Culture

Frank Serpico's story has permeated popular culture, influencing films, TV shows, and literature. The 1973 film Serpico, starring Al Pacino, remains a classic, and his legacy continues to inspire writers, filmmakers, and artists.