Off-Duty NYPD Officer Arrested in the Bronx After Allegedly Pulling a Gun on a Woman Who Rejected His $60 Offer, Then Telling Police He’d “Had a Few Drinks”
BRONX, NEW YORK — An off-duty NYPD officer has been arrested and suspended without pay after allegedly pointing a gun at a woman who turned down his $60 offer for oral sex in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx.
Joel Perez Leonardo, 25, now faces several criminal charges. He has not been convicted of any crime.
Key Facts in the Case
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Officer | Joel Perez Leonardo, 25 |
| Date and time | About 2:30 a.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2026 |
| Location | Near Tiffany Street and Viele Avenue, Hunts Point, Bronx |
| Vehicle | 2019 Mazda CX-5 |
| Status | Arrested, suspended without pay |
| Next court date | January 7, 2027 |
The Alleged Encounter Inside the Car
According to prosecutors, cited by the Daily News, Leonardo and the woman were sitting inside his 2019 Mazda CX-5 when he allegedly offered her $60 for oral sex.
When she refused, prosecutors say the situation turned threatening. Leonardo allegedly grabbed a gun, pointed it at her and yelled at her to get out of his car.
Woman Flags Down a Nearby Officer
The woman reported the incident to a police officer who was nearby. When that officer approached Leonardo, the criminal complaint says he had bloodshot, watery eyes and a pale face.
Leonardo allegedly told the officer, “I was at the bar. I had a few drinks.”
Refused Breathalyzer, License Suspended
Leonardo then refused to take a breathalyzer test. According to News 12 The Bronx, prosecutors said his driver’s license was suspended because he refused to complete DWI testing at the scene.
Charges Filed in Bronx Criminal Court
Leonardo was arraigned in Bronx Criminal Court on Thursday, November 5, on charges including:
- Menacing
- Harassment
- Patronizing a person for prostitution
- Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Released on His Own Recognizance
Leonardo was released on his own recognizance. The Bronx District Attorney’s Office issued an order of protection that:
- Bars him from contacting the woman
- Suspends his license to possess a firearm
His Short Time on the Force
Leonardo joined the NYPD in April 2025. He was first assigned to the 44th Precinct in the Bronx before transferring to the 28th Precinct in Central Harlem.
The NYPD confirmed he has been suspended without pay while the case moves forward. He also faces an internal review.
What Happens Next
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Criminal case | Due back in court January 7, 2027 |
| NYPD status | Suspended without pay |
| Internal review | Ongoing |
| Protective order | In place, no contact with the woman |
Accountability Questions for Off-Duty Officers
The case has renewed questions about off-duty conduct by police officers, especially when it involves firearms and alcohol. Departments typically hold officers to strict standards even when they are not on duty.
Where to Get Help
Anyone threatened with a weapon should:
- Get to a safe place immediately
- Call 911
- Report the incident to police and seek support from local victim services
Stay with Bchssreport.com for the latest updates on this story.
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