In late August, just before federal agents arrived with a search warrant, New York Police Department Commissioner Edward Caban cleared three officers found guilty of misconduct during a raid on a Brooklyn bar. This decision came under scrutiny as federal prosecutors investigate allegations of influence peddling within the police department and City Hall. The owner of the bar accused Edward Caban’s twin brother, James Caban, of attempting to extort him for assistance in smoothing relations with the local police. The bar owner, Shamel Kelly, is now cooperating with prosecutors as a potential witness in the investigation. These allegations are part of a larger probe into Mayor Eric Adams, who faces federal charges of accepting bribes and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals.
Shamel Kelly recounts his issues with the police, which began after his juice bar obtained a temporary liquor license in 2023. Officers from the local precinct would frequently visit the bar, imposing fines for various infractions. Kelly detailed an incident in April 2023 where officers tackled a man who refused to provide identification, broke a door, and searched the bar without a warrant. He also mentioned being threatened by an NYPD lieutenant, who promised to make his life difficult. Seeking help, Kelly reached out to an associate of the mayor and was connected to City Hall’s nightlife office, where he met James Caban, who presented himself as a security consultant with ties to the local precinct.
James Caban offered to arrange a meeting with the precinct commander for a fee of $2,500, which Kelly viewed as a shakedown scheme and declined. Subsequently, local police increased their enforcement actions against the bar, leading to its eventual closure. According to records, officers visited the bar over 60 times in a year, issuing fines for minor infractions. The Civilian Complaint Review Board substantiated misconduct allegations against three officers involved in the April 2023 incident, recommending administrative charges for one officer and lesser discipline for the others. However, Commissioner Edward Caban intervened, ensuring the officers did not face discipline, citing a need for a thorough investigation.
Edward and James Caban have denied any wrongdoing and have not been charged with any crimes. Federal prosecutors have not elaborated on why they seized phones from both brothers. Edward Caban’s decision to override the disciplinary recommendations from the board was met with disappointment by Shamel Kelly, who believed the brothers’ connection influenced the outcome. Kelly expressed hope that justice would prevail in the situation. Investigations into the allegations and the broader probe into Mayor Eric Adams are ongoing, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Manhattan not providing any comments or updates on the matter.
Overall, the allegations of influence peddling within the New York Police Department and City Hall have raised significant concerns about the integrity of law enforcement and government officials. The case involving Commissioner Edward Caban and his brother James Caban sheds light on potential corruption within the system and the challenges faced by business owners like Shamel Kelly. The cooperation of witnesses like Kelly in ongoing investigations reflects a growing need to address and root out corrupt practices within public institutions. As the probes continue, the public and authorities alike will be closely watching for further developments and potential legal actions against those implicated.
