Edward Caban Officially Named NYPD Commissioner

NEW YORK CITY — Edward Caban will be the NYPD's new commissioner, a widely anticipated and historic pick that comes after the abrupt resignation of his predecessor.

The official selection of Caban, announced Monday morning by Mayor Eric Adams, will make him the first Hispanic head of the nation's largest police department.

"He's the right choice for right now," Adams said, moments after a crowd of cops chanted "Eddie."

"This is an amazing moment for not only the Spanish-speaking community, this is an amazing moment for our entire city and country," Adams said.

The historic appointment comes after former Commissioner Keechant Sewell, who was the first Black woman to lead the NYPD, suddenly resigned amid reports of behind-the-scenes tension with officials closely tied to Adams.

Caban took over as acting commissioner from Sewell and is widely seen as close to Adams.

He acknowledged the historic nature of both his and Sewell's appointments and said it would inspire a young man, a college student or military veteran to ask "what if?"

"To them I'd say, the NYPD wants you, the NYPD needs you and your commissioner has plenty for you to do, so come join us," he said. "And, as the mayor likes to say, let's get stuff done."

Adams also announced that Tania Kinsella will be the NYPD's first deputy commissioner. She'll be the first woman of color to serve in that role for the department.

The pick of Caban drew praise from Patrick Hendry, the president of the Police Benevolent Association.

"We know he knows what New York City police officers are going through right now, and that strong leadership is needed to reverse the current staffing crisis," Hendry said in a statement. "There is no time to waste."

Advocates with The Legal Aid Society were more measured in their response. In a lengthy statement, they implored him to ditch "racist and fraught" law enforcement models and address rampant misconduct by NYPD officers.

"Lastly, The Legal Aid Society is willing to collaborate with Mr. Caban to advance these overdue reforms and many others, just as we are always willing to hold the Department and its officers accountable when called for on behalf of the people we serve," the statement reads.