New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban has resigned, effective Thursday, amid ongoing federal scrutiny. Caban’s resignation follows the recent seizure of his phone as part of a federal investigation involving several members of Mayor Eric Adams’ inner circle. Caban announced his decision via email, citing the distraction caused by the news around the investigation and his commitment to focusing solely on the safety and effectiveness of the NYPD.
Interim Commissioner Appointed
In light of Caban’s resignation, Mayor Eric Adams has appointed Tom Donlon, a retired FBI official, as the interim police commissioner. Donlon, who previously led the FBI’s National Threat Center and ran a security firm, is tasked with overseeing the department during this critical period. Adams expressed gratitude for Donlon’s willingness to step in, noting the importance of stability in the face of heightened scrutiny.
Investigation and Controversies
Caban’s resignation comes amidst a broader federal investigation involving various city officials. This inquiry, led by the U.S. Attorney’s office in Manhattan, has also touched on Caban’s twin brother, James Caban, and other high-profile figures in the Adams administration. The nature of the investigation remains unclear, with no public charges against any officials at this time.
Caban, who led the NYPD for about 15 months, was the first Latino to head the department. He faced criticism for his handling of internal disciplinary issues, including controversial decisions regarding police shootings and administrative cases. Despite these challenges, Caban’s tenure saw mixed results in crime statistics, with some categories improving while others, such as hate crimes, saw increases.
Personal Background and Legacy
Joining the NYPD as a patrol officer in 1991, Caban rose through the ranks to become the department’s chief. His resignation marks a significant moment for the NYPD and the city’s law enforcement community, highlighting ongoing issues within the administration and the impact of federal investigations on public service roles.
