NYPD commissioner Caban fired an attorney who attempted to penalize a friend.

Former NYPD Chief Accused of Misconduct

A recent lawsuit claims that former NYPD Chief Edward Kaban engaged in misconduct, allegedly pressuring police lawyers while urging discipline against colleagues in the department.

The lawsuit, filed by ex-chief attorney Amy Litwin, states that Kaban and Mayor Adams sought to terminate her employment after she recommended disciplinary action regarding a former police officer. This officer had pursued a group of teens while brandishing a loaded gun back in 2021.

Litwin asserts that she was dismissed two months after submitting a comprehensive report backing disciplinary measures against the officer, whom she accused of abusing their authority. According to her, Kaban frequently exerted undue pressure on her, especially when the officer in question had connections to Bagh, who was responsible for investigating such cases.

After nearly two decades as a prosecutor, Litwin’s attorney, Salena Townsend, mentioned that she lost her career simply for doing her job. Townsend also represents four other former NYPD officials who have filed similar claims against Adams and the department.

In the allegations, it’s suggested that when Litwin confronted Kaban’s division chief about the misconduct, she faced backlash, ultimately leading to her firing. Her detailed submissions point to a climate of cronyism following Bagh’s appointment within the department.

The lawsuit notes that Kaban exerted “inappropriate” pressure on Litwin, asking her to expedite reviews of cases involving officers with whom he had personal ties, and requesting the reinstatement of suspended officers. In one instance, Litwin claims Bagh expressed that it wouldn’t be proper for him to discipline someone he knew personally.

The filing, first reported by Gothamist, states that such interference was egregious and unjust. However, in 2023, a private complaint review board prompted Madrid to reevaluate the findings regarding the retired officer’s controversial arrest of the teens.

Litwin’s suit alleges that Kaban, Adams, and Bagh conspired to shield the NYPD from accountability regarding ongoing corruption and misconduct within the department. Initially, police chief Keechant Sewell supported Litwin’s findings that Madrid warranted punitive measures but was later removed from her position shortly after the report was submitted, leading to Kaban’s promotion as commissioner.

As Madrid controlled the department, it is claimed that he, along with others, endeavored to rid the NYPD of longstanding officials implicated in the culture of corruption. Reports indicated that numerous senior members had been ousted during this upheaval.

Strangely enough, when it came time for Litwin’s dismissal, Madrid was present, which she found quite unsettling, noting there was no justification for his presence at that moment.