Federal agents and NYPD internal affairs investigators searched homes linked to police officials on Wednesday, expanding a corruption probe that initially focused on former department leadership. Jeffrey Maddrey, the former chief of department, faced earlier scrutiny that triggered the broader investigation, according to people familiar with the matter.

The coordinated searches signal escalating federal involvement in examining potential misconduct within the nation's largest police force. Multiple agencies working together suggests investigators believe wrongdoing extends beyond individual officers to possible systemic issues. These actions follow mounting pressure for accountability in law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Such investigations typically examine financial irregularities, abuse of power, or evidence tampering. When federal authorities join local probes, it often indicates potential criminal charges rather than internal discipline alone. The searches occurred amid ongoing questions about police oversight and transparency in major metropolitan departments.

The investigation's scope and findings could reshape public trust in the NYPD and influence future policing reforms. Any criminal charges would represent significant accountability measures, while civil proceedings might follow depending on evidence uncovered during the home searches.