New York City Police Commissioner Resigns Following Federal Phone Seizure

By Jonathan Allen

NEW YORK – New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban announced his resignation on Thursday, just one week after FBI agents seized his phone as part of a series of federal corruption investigations involving senior city administration officials.

Caban, who made history as the first Hispanic person to serve in the role when he was appointed in July 2023, stated through his legal representatives that he had been informed he was not the target of any investigation by the U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan. He committed to continue cooperating with the investigation.

In his statement, Caban emphasized, "My complete focus must be on the NYPD. However, the noise around recent developments has made that impossible and has hindered the important work our city requires. I have therefore decided it is in the best interest of the Department that I resign as Commissioner."

Last week, federal agents also seized phones belonging to Caban’s twin brother, James, who previously served as a police officer before being dismissed in 2001 and now operates a nightclub security business. Following these events, calls for Caban’s resignation intensified, and Mayor Eric Adams faced increasing scrutiny regarding his ability to lead the city amid these distractions.

In addition to Caban, agents executed searches and seized electronic devices belonging to several other high-ranking officials and advisors in the Adams administration. Notably, FBI agents had previously confiscated electronic devices associated with Adams in November.

To date, no charges have been filed against anyone involved. Adams, a former police captain who took office in 2022, has stated that he is cooperating with investigators and has asked his officials to do the same, assuring that his primary focus remains on serving the residents of New York City.

Addressing the situation at City Hall, Adams expressed his surprise at the investigations and noted their seriousness. He highlighted a reduction in crime during Caban’s 14-month tenure and deemed Caban’s resignation a "best decision at this time." "I respect his decision and wish him well," Adams added.

Adams has appointed Tom Donlon, a former FBI official and security consultancy founder, as the interim police commissioner.

Federal prosecutors from the U.S. attorney’s offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn are overseeing multiple corruption investigations involving senior officials in the Adams administration, though they have refrained from commenting on the ongoing probes and recent searches.