NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban resigns over nightclub corruption probe involving his twin brother
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban has resigned amid an ongoing investigation into corruption that is tied to his twin brother.
Caban, a career cop who served with New York Mayor Eric Adams in the 1990s, announced his resignation in a letter to all officers on Thursday.
Last week, federal investigators seized his phone and the devices of other senior aides.
The investigation stems from his relationship with his twin brother, James. According to The New York Daily News, James is being investigated for allegedly selling favors to the nightclub venues he consults for.
NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban has resigned amid an ongoing investigation into corruption
A former cop himself, James is known as the 'fixer' between the city and high-end hospitality venues.
The New York Post reports that James would trade a softer touch from the NYPD if any of the hotspots fell into trouble with the law.
'It wasn't old-school mafia, "If you don’t pay, we break your windows". But [it was], ‘My brother is a big shot, and he can make your fines and underage drinking go away,' a source said.
James, a security expert, is suspected of selling police favoritism to nightclubs, using his closeness with his brother to ensure their protection.
Whenever he is in the city, he is driven around with NYPD protection to keep him safe from bad actors who may mistake him for his high-powered brother.
Caban insists the protection measure is necessary, but that neither he nor his brother has done wrong.
In his resignation letter, Caban said the solemnity of the 9/11 anniversary yesterday reminded him of the 'unwavering dedication and resilience' of the NYPD.
'My complete focus has always been on the NYPD – the department and people I love and have dedicated over 30 years of service to.
The commissioner has become embroiled in an investigation into his twin brother James. James, a security consultant, is suspected of selling preferential police treatment to NYC nightclubs
'However, 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.
Mayor Eric Adams holds a press conference at New York City Hall in August 2023 with former Police Commissioner Caban in attendence.
'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.
'Thank you for the trust you have placed in me, and for the opportunity you have given me to serve alongside the members of this great department.
'I feel strongly that we have the best police force in the world, and have complete faith in the leaders across the NYPD.'
