New York City Mayor Eric Adams faces explosive new allegations in a federal lawsuit filed Wednesday by former interim NYPD Commissioner Thomas Donlon, who claims the Democratic mayor oversaw a corrupt network within the NYPD, using the department for political gain, retaliation, and intimidation.
Donlon, appointed in 2024 after the resignation of Edward Caban, alleges that Adams and top city officials ran the department as “a racketeering enterprise.” The lawsuit names Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry, Chief of Department John Chell, and former Deputy Commissioner Tarik Sheppard among the co-defendants.
According to the 251-page complaint, Adams and his associates used the NYPD to “consolidate political power, obstruct justice, and punish dissent.” Donlon accuses the administration of weaponizing law enforcement to retaliate against internal critics, including the arrest of his wife during a routine traffic stop where she lacked registration paperwork. Donlon alleges the arrest was not an accident but a calculated act of intimidation meant to “silence and personally destroy” him.
The lawsuit also alleges that NYPD leadership abandoned lawful governance and engaged in systemic malfeasance, directed from City Hall. Donlon’s lawyers argue that the retaliation he experienced was part of a deliberate campaign to protect those in power while punishing those who resisted.
City Hall has denied all allegations. Press Secretary Kayla Mamelak Altus called the suit “absurd” and labeled Donlon a “disgruntled former employee.” She insisted the claims are baseless and predicted the case will be dismissed. According to Altus, Donlon was “rightfully removed” for being ineffective in his interim role.
The lawsuit adds to a growing wave of legal scrutiny surrounding Mayor Adams. Earlier this month, four other former NYPD officials filed a separate complaint alleging corruption and favoritism at the top of the department. Meanwhile, Adams is facing a tough reelection battle. Polling shows him trailing behind Democratic Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent.
Adams has yet to publicly comment on the lawsuit. His administration remains under pressure as corruption accusations, plummeting approval ratings, and internal party challenges continue to mount.
