Investigation into James Caban: Allegations of Corruption in NYC Nightlife
Recent reports have surfaced regarding James Caban, the twin brother of New York City Police Commissioner Edward Caban, who is under scrutiny for purportedly acting as a “fixer” for various restaurants and nightclubs across the city. This investigation has drawn attention to his alleged connections with high-profile Manhattan venues.
Federal Inquiry into Consulting Activities
Federal authorities are examining consulting services that James Caban, 56, allegedly provided to upscale establishments in Manhattan. Sources indicate that he may have played a role in mitigating conflicts between these businesses and law enforcement agencies. According to the New York Post, one insider described the situation not as traditional organized crime but rather as leveraging familial connections: “It wasn’t about threats; it was more like ‘My brother can help you avoid fines or issues with underage drinking.’”
Among the venues reportedly involved are Marquee and PhD—both owned by TAO Hospitality Group—as well as Creatures at Selina Rooftop located in Chelsea. Public records reveal that Creatures has faced over 150 noise complaints within just two years.
FBI Raids Linked Officials Amid Corruption Probe
On Wednesday, FBI agents executed search warrants at residences belonging to both Cabans along with First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III. The investigation also extends to former NYPD official Timothy Pearson, who currently advises Mayor Eric Adams on public safety matters. Authorities seized electronic devices from these individuals amid ongoing inquiries into potential influence peddling.
This follows previous actions where federal agents confiscated devices from Mayor Adams during an event last year and conducted a raid on one of his top fundraisers’ homes. Although Adams has denied any wrongdoing, he acknowledged receiving a subpoena from federal prosecutors last month and stated that he is cooperating fully with their investigation.
Scrutiny Over Police Reports and Complaints Handling
As part of this ongoing inquiry into James Caban’s activities, investigators are reviewing police documentation related to bars and restaurants in Manhattan alongside emails exchanged among NYPD officials. They aim to ascertain whether complaints against these establishments were managed appropriately.
Reports suggest that James began offering his services around the time when Edward served as first deputy commissioner under then-NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell until her resignation in July 2023.
James Caban’s Troubled Past with Law Enforcement
James Caban’s history within law enforcement is marred by controversy; he joined the NYPD in 1989 but left amid numerous allegations leading up to January 2001. He faced substantiated claims regarding excessive force used during two separate incidents back in 1996 yet managed to rise through ranks before being dismissed for improperly detaining a cab driver suspected of theft related to his wife’s purse.
After leaving the police force, he acquired an apartment building located in Bronx but soon found himself listed among New York City’s worst landlords by August 2013 due largely due failing repairs on over three hundred property violations—a situation which ultimately led him serving thirty days jail time after ignoring multiple requests from city officials for necessary maintenance work on his property.
In court proceedings at that time, it was revealed that taxpayers had already spent $115,000 addressing emergency repairs while Caban claimed financial inability prevented him from making required fixes.
Official Responses Amid Ongoing Investigations
Fox News Digital reached out for comments from Edward Caban’s office along with representatives from Eric Adams’ administration and TAO Hospitality Group but received no immediate responses regarding this unfolding story.
A spokesperson representing DCPI confirmed awareness of an active investigation led by U.S Attorney’s Office concerning members associated with service roles within law enforcement stating: “The Department is fully cooperating throughout this process.”
As developments continue surrounding both Cabans amidst allegations involving corruption linked directly back towards influential nightlife venues across New York City—this case serves as another reminder highlighting challenges facing urban governance intertwined deeply within local business operations.
