Just ten days after assuming the role of NYPD Commissioner, Thomas Donlon is now facing a federal investigation, according to a statement released late Saturday. Donlon, who took over following the sudden resignation of Edward Caban, confirmed that federal agents executed search warrants at his residences on Friday, September 20.
“They took materials that came into my possession approximately 20 years ago and are unrelated to my work with the New York City Police Department,” Donlon said in his statement.
The investigation adds to the growing number of federal probes involving New York City officials, including close aides to Mayor Eric Adams and senior NYPD figures. Donlon, a former FBI agent, was appointed from outside the department in an effort to address concerns about the NYPD’s leadership and credibility.
It is still unclear whether this probe is connected to the other ongoing federal investigations involving Mayor Adams’ office. Despite the increasing number of inquiries, neither the mayor nor his aides have been formally charged with any crimes – but the broadening scope of these investigations is casting a shadow over City Hall.
On the same day that Donlon’s homes were searched, federal authorities issued a subpoena to Molly Schaeffer, the city’s director of asylum seeker operations. Agents also reportedly visited a residence linked to her parents, though no official connection between these actions and Donlon’s investigation has been made.
Fabien Levy, deputy mayor for communications, responded by emphasizing the administration’s stance. “As we have repeatedly said, we expect all team members to fully comply with any law enforcement inquiry,” Levy stated in an email.
