NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban is resigning Thursday, a week after news broke that federal investigators had seized his cell phone as part of a larger investigation that has ensnared a number of NYPD officers and several members of Mayor Adams’ administration, inside sources told the Daily News.
The decision follows calls for Caban to step down so the nation’s largest police department could operate without the distraction of an ongoing investigation.
Caban has not been accused of any wrongdoing. His brother, James Caban, also had his phone seized, with sources saying he is being investigated by federal authorities over the question of whether he “sold” security favors to nightclubs.
The top cop, sworn into office in July 2023 as NYC’s first Latino top cop. He replaced Keechant Sewell, who resigned in June 2023 amid speculation she was frustrated with her role in the Adams administration.
The flurry of activity began early Wednesday, when FBI agents searched the homes of First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, her partner, Education Department Chancellor David Banks, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks, their younger brother Terence Banks and City Hall adviser Tim Pearson, seizing their electronic devices.
Sources told the Daily News that Caban’s twin brother James Caban also had his home searched and electronics confiscated by the feds during the same time span as the top administration officials. A former NYPD officer, James Caban works as a consultant providing security for nightlife venues in the city.
Amid calls for Caban’s resignation, Mayor Adams said Saturday he supports a “good healthy review” of Police Commissioner Edward Caban, after declaring he has full confidence in the top cop.
But several local elected officials have called for Caban’s resignation.
“I support a good healthy review, and all members of my administration — they know my rules,” Adams told reporters near 44th St. and Fifth Ave. in Manhattan as the 2024 Labor Day Parade kicked off.
“Everyone must follow the rules and that is what I believe we must be focused on. I support due process and a complete review,” he said.
Caban did not comment after news of the federal investigation broke.
He spent last weekend with his family in Florida and was back at One Police Plaza on Monday.
This is a developing story; check back for updates.
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