‘Fire Her’: NYPD Detective Sparks Discussion After Appearing in Skimpy Swimwear in Rapper’s Music Video

A New York City detective has found herself under scrutiny after being featured as a video vixen in a rapper’s music video wearing revealing swimwear and dancing provocatively. The video, which quickly gained traction online, has sparked debate over personal freedom and professional responsibility.

Melissa Mercado, a detective with the NYPD’s Special Victims Unit, was featured in the music video for “Doin That” by rapper S-Quire. The video, shared by World Hip Hop on YouTube, has since gone viral, amassing over one million views.

While some defended her right to participate, others criticized her involvement, questioning whether it was appropriate for a law enforcement officer.

Critics were vocal. “Nah, fire her. When you take that type of job, you have to know and do better,” one person wrote. Another added, “There’s no justification for her action, that’s not right for a law enforcement officer. Not a woman thing.”

Supporters pushed back. “If she wasn’t on the clock, that’s her business,” one individual commented. Another wrote, “It’s not like she was in uniform. Who cares?” A third chimed in, “She’s an adult?? Her job shouldn’t dictate her personal life??”

Someone else added, “Let her be..she can be freaky and still serve and protect.” Another echoed similar sentiments, “Leave that woman alone.”

The NYPD has not issued an official statement on the matter, but opinions within the department remain divided. Some officers argue that Detective Mercado’s appearance in the music video is a personal choice and not a violation of department rules.

“What she’s doing really has nothing to do with her as an employee, as an NYC detective,” a police union source stated. “She’s not wearing NYPD paraphernalia. Nothing in the video says she’s a detective.”

However, the source noted that if Mercado was paid for the appearance, she would have been required to file an off-duty employment application. “The job would want to know about that,” the source said. “But I would say nothing she does in the video is the department’s business.”

Another officer defended Mercado, describing her as a dedicated detective who has “made some good collars” and is “respected by her peers.” Still, not everyone in law enforcement sees it that way. Retired NYPD Special Victims Division Chief Michael Osgood questioned whether a detective in Mercado’s position should engage in such activities.

Osgood acknowledged that some believe off-duty behavior should remain private. However, he argued that Mercado’s actions were inappropriate for a police officer, calling them “unbecoming” and saying he found them morally wrong for someone in her position.

Others within the NYPD viewed her actions as an embarrassment to the department. One detective questioned why she would make such a decision, calling it foolish and emphasizing that officers are expected to uphold a higher standard as role models.

Attorney Eric Sanders, a retired NYPD officer who represents many police officers, argued that Mercado’s actions did not align with the values and professional standards expected of law enforcement, particularly those handling sensitive cases involving special victims.

He urged the department to conduct a thorough review of her conduct and overall fitness for duty to ensure accountability and maintain public trust.

Reports indicate that Mercado has been with the NYPD since 2018. She currently serves as a grade 3 detective in the Bronx Special Victims Unit, earning an annual salary of $144,000. Last year, Mercado was promoted along with several colleagues.

The NYPD even acknowledged the achievement on its official X account, sharing a photo of the newly promoted officers. The post praised their dedication, stating, “Always a great day when we get to celebrate the hard work of our members. Congratulations to all of today’s promoters.”

Rapper S-Quire, whose real name is Phabian Winfield, said he had no idea Mercado was a police officer until reporters contacted him. He only knew her by the nickname Honeybee, which she also used on social media.

Winfield admitted he was surprised by the revelation, saying she didn’t fit the typical image of a detective. “I didn’t know what she did for a living,” he said. He referenced the well-known crime drama “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” noting that Mercado didn’t resemble what people usually associate with law enforcement.

The rapper explained that Mercado was an acquaintance he met through the video’s producer, Picture Perfect. She volunteered to be part of the project, which was filmed in early 2022 at Club Vanity, a gentlemen’s club in Queens. The production took place over a few hours before the club resumed for business.

According to Winfield, Mercado simply wanted to support the project and bring his vision to life. The rapper said he selected her for her appearance but described her as a relaxed and down-to-earth person outside the music scene.

As the video gained traction and sparked debate, Mercado, a mother of a young boy, took down her Instagram account earlier this week. S-Quire admitted he was caught off guard by how quickly the video gained attention. He suspected that Mercado also didn’t anticipate the reaction and may have panicked as it spread online.

“I think she thought the video wasn’t going to go anywhere,” he said, calling it just one of those unpredictable moments. While some viewers praised Mercado’s appearance, others pointed out that she lacked the skills of a professional dancer.

According to S-Quire, several people reached out to say he should have chosen someone with more experience. However, he defended his decision, explaining that when working with volunteers, skill level isn’t always guaranteed.

It remains unclear whether Mercado will face any disciplinary action from the department. However, the incident has reignited discussions about the private lives of public servants and the scrutiny they face.