Full Breakdown
Whistleblower Lawsuit Alleges Retaliation in NYC Department of Probation
4/11/2026, 1:34:05 AM
Allegations of Misconduct and Retaliation
Ebony Huntley, a former chief investigator for the New York City Department of Probation, has filed a lawsuit claiming she was terminated for whistleblowing on alleged misconduct involving Sharun Goodwin, the newly appointed commissioner of the agency, and Wayne McKenzie, the agency's general counsel. Huntley alleges that Goodwin, appointed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani in January 2026, had a prior intimate relationship with McKenzie, whom she rehired shortly after taking office. Huntley asserts that her dismissal occurred just one day after she reported her concerns to the city Department of Investigation.
Background of the Case
Huntley, a retired NYPD lieutenant, was earning $170,000 annually in her role at the Department of Probation. Her lawsuit, which has garnered attention since its initial report by Politico, claims that her firing was a direct act of retaliation for her whistleblowing activities. In addition to seeking damages for wrongful termination, Huntley is also claiming $200,000 in unpaid wages for her time with the agency.
Official Statements & Responses
The city has not publicly commented on the specifics of Huntley's allegations or the lawsuit. However, the Department of Probation, under Goodwin's leadership, has faced scrutiny regarding its internal practices and leadership decisions since Mamdani's administration began.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Mamdani's administration have raised concerns about the potential implications of appointing individuals with personal ties to leadership positions within city agencies. The allegations made by Huntley highlight issues of transparency and accountability in the Department of Probation, which could undermine public trust in the agency's operations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Huntley's lawsuit presents serious allegations regarding the relationships and conduct within the Department of Probation, there has been no independent verification of her claims as of yet. The city has remained silent on the matter, leaving gaps in the public understanding of the situation.
What's Next
The lawsuit is expected to proceed through the legal system, and further developments may arise as more information becomes available. The outcome could have significant implications for the leadership structure within the Department of Probation and the broader context of governance under Mayor Mamdani.
Verbatim Quotes
“Ebony Huntley, a retired NYPD lieutenant, said she was fired the day after she reached out to the city Department of Investigation with her concerns about the agency’s leadership under new Probation Commissioner Sharun Goodwin, appointed by Mamdani in late January.” — Source: NY Post
“Manhattan District Attorney's Office She also claims the city owes her $200,000 in unpaid wages during her short stint with the agency.” — Source: NY Post
