NYPD Commissioner Steps Down Unexpectedly Amid New Developments

Two people exchanging envelope under table.

NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban resigns amidst federal corruption probe, leaving the department in turmoil.

At a Glance

NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban resigned abruptly following a federal raid on his home
Federal agents seized Caban’s cell phone as part of a corruption investigation
Mayor Eric Adams appointed Tom Donlon as interim police commissioner
The investigation is probing potential misconduct involving Caban’s twin brother
No charges have been filed, and Caban’s attorneys state he is not a target of the investigation

Sudden Departure Shakes NYPD Leadership

New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban has resigned, sending shockwaves through the department. The resignation comes less than a week after federal agents raided his home and seized his cell phone as part of a corruption investigation. Caban, who was the first Latino to serve as NYPD commissioner, had been appointed to the position in July 2023.

The sudden departure of Caban marks a significant upheaval in the NYPD’s leadership. Mayor Eric Adams swiftly appointed Tom Donlon as the new interim police commissioner. Donlon, a Bronx native, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously run the FBI’s National Threat Center and participated in high-profile investigations, including the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

Breaking news: New York Police Department Commissioner Edward Caban announced his resignation Thursday, about a week after his electronics were seized in an ongoing federal investigation into potential corruption. https://t.co/gHqhl8V9vY

— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) September 12, 2024

Investigation Casts Wide Net

The federal probe extends beyond Caban, encompassing multiple criminal investigations into the city government. Other top officials appointed by Mayor Adams, including First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III, have also had their homes raided. The investigation is being conducted by the IRS’s Criminal Investigation Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.

Despite the ongoing investigation, Mayor Adams praised Caban’s tenure, highlighting a reduction in crime during his 14-month term as commissioner. However, the distraction caused by the federal raid and investigation ultimately led to Caban’s decision to step down.

Scope of the Investigation

The federal inquiry is reportedly examining whether James Caban, the commissioner’s twin brother, profited from Edward Caban’s position and if certain nightclubs received preferential treatment. Investigators are also looking into allegations that officers may have been pressured to target clubs not doing business with James Caban and whether promotions within the department were linked to this scheme.

As the investigation unfolds, interim commissioner Tom Donlon has pledged to maintain the highest standards of integrity within the NYPD. The department has stated it is fully cooperating with the federal probe. It’s important to note that no charges have been filed, and Caban’s attorneys have emphasized that he is not a target of the investigation and will cooperate fully.

Broader Implications for City Administration

This latest development is part of a series of corruption probes involving top aides to Mayor Eric Adams. The mayor and his administration have faced increasing federal scrutiny since he took office in 2022. A separate investigation is also underway regarding alleged illegal campaign contributions from foreign sources, further complicating the political landscape in New York City.

As the NYPD enters this period of transition, the focus will be on restoring public trust and ensuring the department’s integrity. The outcome of these investigations could have far-reaching consequences for the NYPD and the broader city government, potentially leading to significant reforms and changes in leadership across multiple agencies.