Frank Serpico

Date of Birth: April 14, 1936

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Biography

Francesco Vincent “Frank” Serpico is a former New York City Police Department (NYPD) officer who is best known for whistleblowing on police corruption in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Serpico joined the NYPD in 1959 and quickly became disillusioned by the widespread corruption among his colleagues. His efforts to expose this corruption eventually led to the Knapp Commission, which investigated police corruption within the NYPD. Serpico’s courageous actions were not without personal cost; he was ostracized by many of his fellow officers and, in 1971, was shot in the face during a drug bust after his backup failed to provide support. Despite his injuries, he survived and continued to be an outspoken advocate for police reform. His story was famously portrayed by Al Pacino in the 1973 film “Serpico,” directed by Sidney Lumet. After retiring from the NYPD, Serpico moved to Europe and spent several years living in Switzerland and the Netherlands. He eventually returned to the United States and has since continued to speak out against police corruption and advocate for transparency and accountability in law enforcement.

5 Interesting Facts about Frank Serpico

1. Frank Serpico was awarded the NYPD’s Medal of Honor in 1972 for his bravery.

2. He speaks multiple languages, including Italian, Spanish, French, and Dutch.

3. Serpico was the first officer in the history of the NYPD to testify about widespread police corruption.

4. His testimony and the subsequent Knapp Commission led to significant reforms in the NYPD.

5. Serpico has been a guest lecturer at various universities and institutions, sharing his experiences and advocating for police reform.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank Serpico

1. “The fight for justice against corruption is never easy. It never has been and never will be. It exacts a toll on our self, our families, our friends, and especially our children.”

2. “If I’m a whistleblower, then so is every person who has ever called out wrongdoing.”

3. “Police corruption cannot exist unless it is at least tolerated at higher levels in the department.”

4. “An honest cop still can’t find work in a police department.”

5. “We must create an atmosphere where the crooked cop fears the honest cop, and not the other way around.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Frank Serpico’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, largely accrued from his book royalties, paid speaking engagements, and consulting work.