New York City has filed a lawsuit seeking to stop the release of a reality television project centered on the New York Police Department, arguing that the footage could endanger officers, civilians, and ongoing investigations.
The case, filed in New York state court, targets a production company run by Jordan McGraw, whose firm had been granted behind-the-scenes access to NYPD operations as part of a project tentatively titled Behind the Badge. City officials say the original intent was to showcase police work while maintaining strict safeguards over sensitive material.
According to the complaint, the agreement required the city to review episode edits before release and allowed officials to block content deemed unsafe, confidential, or legally restricted. New York alleges that the producers later rejected those oversight terms and indicated plans to distribute or sell the footage without required redactions.
City attorneys claim that early cuts of the episodes reveal the identities of undercover officers, detainees, witnesses, and victims without blurring faces or disguising voices. The lawsuit also cites scenes showing police security procedures, confidential communications, and investigative techniques that officials say should never be publicly disclosed.
One example highlighted in the filing involves footage that allegedly captures an officer entering a security code at a precinct station, while other segments reportedly include detailed discussions of sensitive operations.
After raising objections, the city says it was informed that the production company would not comply with the content restrictions and intended to move forward with publication. Officials further allege that the producers are actively seeking a buyer to air the material in 2026 or could release it independently.
New York formally withdrew from the contract late last year and is now asking the court to issue an injunction preventing the footage from being sold, transferred, or broadcast. The lawsuit includes claims for breach of contract, trademark infringement, and unfair competition, arguing that any release would cause irreparable harm to public safety and the city’s reputation.
Neither the production company nor city officials provided immediate public comment following the filing. The case remains pending in New York County Supreme Court.
