NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban resigns amid a federal corruption investigation, leaving the department’s leadership in question.
At a Glance
- Edward Caban, NYPD commissioner, resigns following federal raid.
- Federal agents seized Caban’s cellphone during the investigation.
- Mayor Eric Adams appoints Tom Donlon as interim commissioner.
- Multiple criminal probes involve top city officials.
Caban Steps Down Amid Investigation
Edward Caban, commissioner of the New York City Police Department, has resigned abruptly less than a week after federal agents raided his home. The raid, part of a broader federal corruption investigation, led to the seizure of Caban’s cellphone. This resignation raises questions about the New York Police Department’s leadership and organizational integrity.
During the raid, investigators focused on allegations of corruption and misconduct within the department. Though the specific details of these allegations remain undisclosed, the involvement of multiple federal agencies indicates the seriousness of the investigation. The IRS’s Criminal Investigation division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York are among the bodies probing the case.
Mayor Adams appointed Tom Donlon as the new interim police commissioner. Donlon, who previously ran the FBI’s National Threat Center and played a role in the investigation of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing, brings significant experience to his new position. Adams expressed confidence in Donlon, stating that he will “uphold the highest standards of integrity and transparency.”
Series of Probes Involving City Officials
Caban’s resignation follows the raiding of not just his home but also those of other top officials appointed by Mayor Adams, including First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III. During these raids, the phones of these officials, as well as Caban’s twin brother, were seized. Although no charges have been filed, the investigations are part of broader corruption probes targeting top aides to Mayor Adams.
In another separate but concurrent probe, federal agents previously raided the home of Adams’ chief fundraiser, Brianna Suggs, as part of an investigation into illegal campaign contributions from foreign sources. The increasing federal scrutiny since Adams took office has cast a shadow over his administration’s accountability and governance.
Impact on the NYPD and Future Prospects
While Caban was the first Latino to serve as NYPD commissioner, having been appointed in July 2023, his tenure has come to an abrupt and controversial end. Adams praised Caban’s leadership, noting “a drop in crime for 13 of the 14 months he served as commissioner.”
Donlon, a Bronx native who has investigated high-profile cases such as al-Qaeda attacks on US embassies and the USS Cole, steps into his new role at a critical juncture for the NYPD. The department faces significant pressures to not only address the corruption allegations but also to ensure transparent and ethical practices moving forward.
Caban cited the need for someone who can focus solely on the NYPD in his resignation letter. His attorneys maintain that he is not a target of the investigation and that he will cooperate fully. The NYPD is cooperating with federal authorities as the investigation continues to unfold. At this critical junction, the department’s leadership will determine its immediate future and ability to restore public trust.
