Four former high-ranking New York City Police Department (NYPD) officials have filed lawsuits accusing Mayor Eric Adams and senior NYPD aides of fostering a culture of corruption and cronyism within the department. The lawsuits allege that promotions were awarded to unqualified allies and that some were sold for as much as $15,000, implicating former Police Commissioner Edward Caban. The plaintiffs, including ex-Chief of Detectives James Essig, Assistant Chief Christopher McCormack, former Chief Matthew Pontillo, and others, claim they were forced out or retaliated against after raising concerns about misconduct, including unconstitutional street stops and favoritism in assignments. The complaints describe a chaotic department under Adams’ administration, with allegations of cover-ups and obstruction of investigations into the anti-crime unit established by the mayor. These developments pose a challenge to Adams, who is already facing difficulties in his re-election campaign and has built his political image on being tough on crime.