Two former New York City police officers are in serious legal trouble after being charged in federal court for allegedly stealing from and sexually assaulting a sex worker while on duty in Queens, New York.
The indictment, unsealed Tuesday in Brooklyn, names Justin McMillan and Justin Colon in a case that has shocked the local community.
The Incident in Jackson Heights
According to prosecutors, the incident began in July 2024, when McMillan and Colon responded to a complaint of prostitution at a building on 89th Street near Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights.
Court documents allege that the officers turned off their body-worn cameras upon arrival and took a key from a woman leaving the premises, failing to report the encounter.
Hours later, at roughly 4:50 a.m., the officers allegedly returned, entered the building with the stolen key, and found a woman engaged in a sexual act with a client.
The client fled, leaving the woman alone and vulnerable.
Alleged Theft and Assault
Prosecutors claim that while Colon acted as a lookout, McMillan stole money from the woman’s purse and groped her breast and buttock.
The woman reportedly managed to flee, and the officers returned to their patrol before eventually going back to their stationhouse.
Both officers resigned from the NYPD in March 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York confirmed.
Charges and Legal Implications
The indictment charges McMillan and Colon with felony conspiracy against rights and willfully depriving the woman of her constitutional rights under color of law—a legal provision used when public officials allegedly violate civil rights while acting in their official capacity.
McMillan faces an additional charge for deprivation of rights related to the alleged sexual abuse.
If convicted, both could face up to 10 years in prison.
Impact and Consequences
This case has raised questions about accountability and oversight within the NYPD.
Allegations of misconduct, especially involving sexual assault, severely undermine public trust in law enforcement.
The incident highlights the importance of monitoring police behavior, enforcing body camera policies, and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable populations, including sex workers.
What’s Next
McMillan and Colon are currently in custody and awaiting trial.
Federal prosecutors will present evidence from body-worn cameras, witness testimony, and other investigative findings.
The case could set a precedent for how allegations of sexual abuse and theft by law enforcement officers are prosecuted at the federal level.
In addition, the NYPD may review internal policies and oversight mechanisms to prevent future abuses, particularly concerning interactions with marginalized communities.
Summary
Two former NYPD officers, Justin McMillan and Justin Colon, face federal charges for allegedly stealing from and sexually assaulting a sex worker in Queens.
Both resigned in 2025, and federal authorities have charged them with depriving the victim of her constitutional rights.
Conviction could result in up to 10 years in prison for each officer, and the case has reignited debates over police accountability.
Bulleted Takeaways
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Former NYPD officers Justin McMillan and Justin Colon are charged in federal court for theft and sexual assault.
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The incident occurred in July 2024 in Jackson Heights, Queens, involving a sex worker and a client.
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Officers allegedly turned off body cameras and stole a key to gain unauthorized access to the building.
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McMillan is separately charged for sexual assault; both face felony conspiracy against rights.
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Both officers resigned from the NYPD in March 2025.
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Convictions carry a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
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The case highlights issues of police accountability, oversight, and protection for vulnerable populations.
