Just over a week after assuming the role of Interim Police Commissioner of New York City, Thomas Donlon confirmed that federal authorities conducted a search at his residences on Friday. Donlon stated that the materials seized were acquired approximately 20 years ago and are unrelated to his current position with the New York City Police Department.
The search warrant is reportedly linked to documents that Donlon may have retained from his previous roles and is not connected to ongoing corruption investigations involving City Hall. The reasons for the search, long after Donlon's departure from government positions, remain unclear.
Donlon, a former FBI official, emphasized that the search warrant does not pertain to the NYPD and that the department will not be providing comments on the matter.
Donlon's appointment as Interim Police Commissioner followed the resignation of Edward Caban amid a federal investigation. Caban cited the distraction caused by recent developments as the reason for his resignation, stating his commitment to focusing on the department's work and the safety of its personnel.
Investigations by the US attorney's office for New York's Southern District involving Caban's brother and nightclub enforcement led to the seizure of Caban's electronic devices prior to his resignation.
Mayor Eric Adams appointed Donlon to the interim commissioner position, expressing respect for Caban's decision to step down and highlighting Donlon's extensive experience in intelligence and law enforcement.
Donlon outlined his goals as interim commissioner, including continuing the decline in crime rates, combating illegal gun possession, maintaining integrity and transparency, and supporting the NYPD officers who risk their lives daily to ensure public safety.
