On Thursday, September 12th, New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban resigned amidst an ongoing federal investigation into the NYPD’s handling of nightclub enforcement. Caban, who made history as the city’s first Latino police commissioner, assumed the role in July 2023 under Mayor Eric Adams.
In an email to NYPD members, Caban stated that the recent developments had become a distraction and that his focus needed to remain on the department’s essential duties, leading to his difficult decision to step down. He said, “The news around recent developments has created a distraction for our department, and I am unwilling to let my attention be on anything other than our important work, or the safety of the men and women of the NYPD.”
Caban continued, “I hold immense respect and gratitude for the brave officers who serve this department, and the NYPD deserves someone who can solely focus on protecting and serving New York City, which is why – for the good of this city and this department – I have made the difficult decision to resign as Police Commissioner.”
The investigation centers around potential corruption involving Caban’s twin brother, James Caban, who runs a nightclub security business. Federal authorities seized both brothers’ phones as they investigated whether James Caban used his connections with the NYPD to profit from nightclubs in Manhattan and Queens. The probe also seeks to determine whether these establishments received favorable treatment from local precincts in exchange for payments.
While Edward Caban is not currently a target of the investigation, his resignation followed the FBI’s raids on the homes of top Adams administration officials, including First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phili Banks III.
In a statement, Caban’s attorneys emphasized that he has always served the public with integrity and that he intends to fully cooperate with federal investigators. Mayor Adams expressed his respect for Caban’s decision, acknowledging that it was the right move under the circumstances and wishing him well.
Thomas Donlon, a former FBI official with national security experience, has been named interim police commissioner. Donlon’s appointment signals the city’s intention to restore public trust while navigating through multiple ongoing federal investigations into its leadership.
