Interim NYPD Commissioner Thomas Donlon is set to step down as early as Friday, just weeks after being appointed to temporarily lead the New York City Police Department. Donlon, a former FBI official, took over the role last month following the sudden resignation of Edward Caban, whose home was raided by the FBI as part of an ongoing federal investigation. Now, Donlon himself is stepping down, with his own background check reportedly hitting a roadblock due to materials seized in a search of his home.
Sources close to the matter indicate that Donlon’s resignation is linked to a federal criminal investigation, although he claims the materials confiscated during the search were from decades ago and unrelated to his recent role as commissioner. His departure adds another layer of turmoil to an already unsettled period for the NYPD and the administration of Mayor Eric Adams.
Donlon’s appointment in September came at a critical time for the Adams administration, which has faced a series of high-profile resignations and investigations. The federal probe into Caban, Donlon’s predecessor, shook the department, and now Donlon’s unexpected exit compounds the challenges facing City Hall as Mayor Adams himself grapples with corruption charges related to his administration’s handling of contracts and city operations.
Donlon’s resignation has prompted speculation about who will be chosen to lead the NYPD in the wake of his departure. Potential candidates for the role include Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who previously held key positions within the NYPD, and Ben Tucker, a former First Deputy Commissioner with decades of experience in law enforcement. Both are seen as steady, experienced leaders who could bring stability to the department during this period of uncertainty.
The NYPD, the nation’s largest police force, has been navigating a series of internal investigations and personnel changes since Mayor Adams took office. Donlon’s exit, following Caban’s resignation, marks the latest in a string of leadership departures that have put added pressure on the administration.
Mayor Adams has not yet commented publicly on Donlon’s expected resignation, though sources inside City Hall suggest that the search for a new commissioner is already underway. The Adams administration, beset by mounting legal issues, is in need of a leader who can restore stability and confidence in the NYPD during this tumultuous time.
Donlon’s brief tenure as interim commissioner was meant to provide a sense of continuity following Caban’s abrupt exit. However, the federal investigation and the roadblock in Donlon’s background check appear to have accelerated the need for another leadership transition. The FBI has not disclosed further details about the nature of the materials seized from Donlon’s home, leaving questions about the broader implications of the investigation.
As the NYPD braces for its next leadership change, the city faces an uncertain future in law enforcement leadership at a time when public trust in the police is critical. Whether the department can find stability in the midst of these leadership upheavals remains to be seen.
