New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban has announced his resignation, effective Friday. The announcement comes amidst a federal investigation into potential corruption within the city’s government, which recently led to the seizure of cellphones belonging to Caban and other NYPD officials.
Caban’s attorneys stated that he is not a target of the Southern District of New York’s investigation and expressed his intention to fully cooperate with authorities. In a statement, Caban emphasized the need to focus on the NYPD, which he has served for over 30 years. He explained that the recent developments had distracted from the department’s critical work.
Mayor Eric Adams has accepted Caban’s resignation and appointed Tom Donlon, a former FBI agent and New York Homeland Security Director, as interim commissioner. Adams praised Caban’s dedication to public safety and acknowledged the reduction in crime during his tenure.
In addition to Caban, federal agents recently searched the homes of several other city officials, including Deputy Mayor Phil Banks and Schools Chancellor David Banks. Though no charges have been filed yet, the investigation reportedly focuses on city contracts and the regulation of bars and clubs.
Adams expressed surprise at the inquiries into his administration but affirmed his commitment to lawfulness. He stated that he is unaware of any wrongdoing within his team. Meanwhile, several senior NYPD officials received subpoenas related to the investigation, which the department is cooperating with.
Caban, who started his career in 1991, became the NYPD’s first deputy commissioner in 2022 and was appointed commissioner in July 2023 after the resignation of Keechant Sewell, the first female commissioner. Following the news of the investigation, City Councilman Robert Holden called for Caban to resign, emphasizing the importance of public confidence in the police department.