Eric Adams faces fifth lawsuit in two weeks from former NYPD officials alleging corruption in the department

The former head of the New York Police Department has filed a federal lawsuit against scandal-scarred New York City Mayor Eric Adams and other high ranking NYPD officials, alleging the group used their power and authority to run a what he called a “criminal enterprise.”

The former head of the New York Police Department has filed a federal lawsuit against scandal-scarred New York City Mayor Eric Adams and other high ranking NYPD officials, alleging the group used their power and authority to run a what he called a “criminal enterprise.” The suit, filed by former interim NYPD Commissioner Thomas Donlon, is the fifth in two weeks to allege rampant corruption within the police department — which the lawsuits say was condoned by City Hall. Donlon’s suit now joins those of other former high-ranking NYPD officials, such as former Chief of Detectives James Essig, who claim they were pushed out after speaking up. The corruption allegations against Adams are the latest blow for the embattled mayor — who managed to skirt federal corruption charges earlier this year and is now running for re-election as an independent candidate, where he faces a difficult path to victory. Donlon’s suit alleges that top members of the NYPD fabricated promotions, retaliated against other members of the department, obstructed internal investigations, and used their power and connections to usurp Donlon’s authority — all while being protected by Adams. Donlon, a former FBI senior executive, says he wants a federal monitor to now oversee the department to “ensure compliance with law and prevent further abuse,” according to the suit. “These are baseless accusations from a disgruntled former employee who — when given the opportunity to lead the greatest police department in the world — proved himself to be ineffective,” said City Hall spokesperson Kayla Mamelak Altus in a statement. “This suit is nothing more than an attempt to seek compensation at the taxpayer’s expense after Mr. Donlon was rightfully removed from the role of interim police commissioner.” When reached for comment, the NYPD deferred to the statement provided by City Hall.