Former NYC Police Commissioner's Lawsuit Dismissed

Judge rules ex-interim commissioner failed to prove corruption claims against mayor's administration.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A Manhattan federal judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by a former New York City police commissioner who claimed his dismissal was retaliation for efforts to expose corruption within the Police Department. The judge said the 243-page lawsuit by Thomas G. Donlon, who was appointed interim commissioner in 2024 by Mayor Eric Adams, failed to provide sufficient proof to back his allegations of a criminal enterprise within the administration.

Why it matters

The dismissal of Donlon's lawsuit is seen as a setback for efforts to hold the Adams administration accountable for alleged misconduct, as the former commissioner had sought to expose what he claimed was widespread corruption within the NYPD.

The details

Donlon, a former FBI official, was appointed by Adams in 2024 to bring stability to the NYPD as local and federal investigations into the mayor's administration widened. However, Donlon was replaced just three months later by Jessica S. Tisch as the current police commissioner. In his lawsuit, Donlon alleged that police officials had undermined his authority, made unauthorized changes, and tried to plant spies in his office, but the judge ruled he failed to provide enough evidence to support those claims.

  • Donlon was appointed interim NYPD commissioner on September 13, 2024.
  • Donlon was replaced by Jessica S. Tisch as police commissioner in November 2024.
  • Donlon filed his lawsuit against the city in July 2025.

The players

Thomas G. Donlon

A former FBI official who served as the interim New York City police commissioner in 2024 before being replaced.

Eric Adams

The former mayor of New York City who appointed Donlon as interim police commissioner.

Jessica S. Tisch

The current New York City police commissioner, appointed by Mayor Adams in November 2024 to replace Donlon.

Denise Cote

The Manhattan federal judge who dismissed Donlon's lawsuit against the city.

John Scola

The lawyer representing Donlon, who said they plan to appeal the judge's decision.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.