Edward Caban, the New York Police Department Commissioner, announced his resignation on Thursday, marking the first major departure from Mayor Eric Adams’ administration amid four federal investigations into the mayor’s office and the NYPD.
Mayor Adams has named a former FBI official as the interim commissioner.
Caban resigned shortly after it emerged that investigators from the US Attorney’s Office for New York’s Southern District had confiscated his electronic devices and phones.
BREAKING: NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban has resigned a week after the feds raided the top cop’s home as part of a corruption probe involving possible influence peddling. pic.twitter.com/zYmkjFyyju
— NYScanner (@nyscanner) September 12, 2024
The investigation reportedly involves Caban’s brother and the enforcement of regulations around nightclubs in New York City, though specifics remain unclear.
Other members of the mayor’s staff are also under investigation by US attorneys in New York’s Eastern and Southern Districts.
Caban stated on Thursday that recent developments had become a distraction for the department, and he wanted to maintain focus on the NYPD’s important work and the safety of its officers.
He expressed deep respect and gratitude for the NYPD officers and stated that the department deserves a leader focused solely on protecting and serving New York City, leading to his decision to resign.
Caban’s lawyers confirmed he is not a target in any investigation.
In a statement, Caban’s attorneys highlighted his dedication to public service and his respect for the NYPD, assuring full cooperation with the government.
Caban’s resignation signifies a significant change in Mayor Adams’ administration. Serving for 13 months, Caban was the NYPD’s first Latino commissioner and has been with the department for 32 years.
Keechant Sewell, another commissioner under Adams, resigned after 18 months due to a power struggle.
Tom Donlon, a former FBI official, has been appointed as interim commissioner. Adams announced Caban’s resignation and supported his decision.
Donlon, a former intelligence official, expressed honour in being named interim commissioner and outlined his goals to continue reducing crime, uphold integrity, and support NYPD officers.
Federal investigators also seized electronic devices from the homes of several top administration officials, including First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks III. They also issued subpoenas for the phones of three lower-ranking police officials.
Earlier this year, the FBI raided the homes of a top Adams aide, Winnie Greco, as part of a separate inquiry.
The US attorneys’ offices and the FBI declined to comment.
Two days before Caban’s resignation, Adams did not publicly support him but expressed confidence in the NYPD’s ability to perform its duties despite the federal investigation.
Adams has not been accused of any wrongdoing and has stated his cooperation with the federal inquiry.
The NYPD confirmed awareness of the investigation and its cooperation with federal authorities.
What Other Media Are Saying
- CBS News reports that NYC Police Commissioner Edward Caban resigned after federal agents raided his home and those of top aides to Mayor Eric Adams, amidst ongoing investigations.(read more)
- ABC News reports that NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban resigns amid a federal investigation into corruption in New York City government, following the seizure of his and other officials’ phones.(read more)
- BBC News reports that New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban is expected to resign following a federal corruption probe, which included a raid on his residence.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why did NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban resign?
Caban resigned due to the distraction caused by the federal investigations and to ensure focus on NYPD’s important work.
Who is the new interim NYPD commissioner?
Mayor Eric Adams appointed former FBI official Tom Donlon as the interim NYPD commissioner.
Is Edward Caban a target of the federal investigation?
No, Caban’s lawyers stated he is not a target of the federal investigation.
What are the federal investigations about?
The investigations involve Caban’s brother and enforcement around NYC nightclubs, and several top administration officials.
How long did Edward Caban serve as NYPD commissioner?
Edward Caban served as NYPD commissioner for 13 months.
