Kevin Taylor, former commander of the NYPD’s school safety division, has been charged with accepting bribes to help sell a mobile panic alert system to New York City schools in 2023, federal prosecutors said. Taylor, accused of abusing his power, allegedly used his influence to push a contract worth millions for the safety tech. The businessman involved, Geno Roefaro, was also indicted. Prosecutors say Taylor enjoyed expensive trips to Las Vegas, the Bahamas, and luxury restaurants as part of the bribery scheme. Taylor issued a memo recommending the NYPD award Roefaro's company a contract and pushed the city council for the purchase. When the contract stalled, Roefaro complained to Taylor via texts about losing money and urged swift action, citing their close ties. Taylor planned a press conference to announce the deal in early 2024, but it never happened. He was moved from his leadership role in February. Taylor also allegedly forced a ballistic vest company to fund a $100,000 holiday party for his division. Taylor pleaded not guilty. His lawyer said, "Kevin Taylor was an inspector for the NYPD for 28 years, in charge of school security, and he’s never had any blemishes on his record before this incident," and added, "The allegations, we believe, are unfounded and he will be exonerated." Roefaro’s defense called the charges puzzling and said he was the victim of extortion. The NYPD said, "There is zero tolerance for misconduct, and that’s why we played a significant role in this investigation."