In a significant escalation of federal investigations surrounding New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the FBI has conducted sudden raids on the homes of several high-ranking city officials and seized phones from top NYPD brass, including the New York City police commissioner.
On Wednesday, federal agents executed search warrants at the residences of First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and her fiancé, Schools Chancellor David Banks, in Hamilton Heights, as well as the home of Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks in Queens.
The next day, authorities seized phones from NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, his Chief of Staff Raul Pintos, and several other high-ranking police officials.
Schools Chancellor Banks confirmed his cooperation with the federal inquiry but declined further comment. The NYPD acknowledged the investigation, stating they are “fully cooperating” with federal authorities.
This latest action appears to be separate from the ongoing investigation into Mayor Adams’ 2021 campaign fundraising and potential Turkish government influence. It also seems distinct from a Brooklyn-based U.S. Attorney’s probe into an administration official with alleged Chinese government connections.
The scope of the new investigation remains unclear, but sources suggest it may involve nightlife enforcement actions and potential conflicts of interest.
Commissioner Caban’s family connections to nightclubs have come under scrutiny.
Mayor Adams claimed he was cooperating with investigators. “I’m not aware of any wrongdoing or misgivings from anyone on my team,” he said.
The FBI had previously raided homes belonging to other Adams associates, including his top campaign fundraiser, international affairs aide, and a special adviser.
The widening probe has drawn attention from political rivals and raised questions about the administration’s integrity. New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat whose own top aide was just charged for foreign bribery, stated she would continue working with the mayor.
As the investigation unfolds, no charges have been filed, and federal officials have not commented on the specifics of the probe.