In a surprising turn of events, the FBI recently conducted raids on the homes of several individuals close to New York City Mayor Eric Adams. These raids have shed light on the extensive network of family ties and longstanding friendships within the upper echelons of city government, particularly with connections to the NYPD.

Among those caught up in the federal probe are the three Banks brothers – David, the city's Schools Chancellor; Philip, the deputy mayor for public safety; and Terence, a government relations consultant. Their father, Philip Jr., served as one of Adams' lieutenants during his time as an NYPD captain.

The Caban family is also entangled in this investigation. Edward Caban, who recently resigned as the NYPD Commissioner, and his identical twin brother James have deep-rooted connections with Adams. Their father, Juan Caban, had a long-standing relationship with Adams dating back to the 1990s when they both ran fraternal groups for Hispanic and Black NYPD officers.

Last week, the FBI executed search warrants and seized electronic devices from the homes of the Banks brothers. The elder Banks had been an influential figure in Adams' life, acting as a mentor throughout the years. Philip and David hold prominent positions within the mayor's administration, despite Philip's past entanglements in a cop bribery case involving allegations of accepting a significant "gift" and unreported income.

The Banks connection extends further, as Sheena Wright, the mayor's first deputy mayor, is also the domestic partner of Philip Banks. Wright holds significant powers within the administration and is responsible for overseeing various city agencies, including the budget office, public housing authority, and social services.

Terence Banks, who recently retired from his position as an MTA subway operations supervisor, established a government relations firm called The Pearl Alliance. While the firm sought business with city government, it is worth noting that Terence is not a registered lobbyist. However, their firm attempted to lobby Phil and David Banks to introduce a "panic button" app within the city's school system.

Former NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, whose home was also searched, has had a lifelong association with Mayor Adams through his father's presidency of the NYPD Hispanic Society. Caban's identical twin brother, James, a former NYPD sergeant, also had his home searched by the FBI. James had previously faced legal troubles related to falsifying records and official misconduct.

It is important to note that the FBI investigations have not yet reached the third Caban brother, Richard. However, Richard came under scrutiny due to his ownership of a Bronx nightspot called Con Sofrito, which was shut down for safety violations in its outdoor space. This establishment had been a favorite of Mayor Adams, who even celebrated his birthday there last year.

The revelations surrounding Adams' familial circles and close friendships within his administration raise questions about potential conflicts of interest and the influence exerted by these individuals. As the federal investigations continue, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Mayor Eric Adams' inner circle and the implications it may have for the city's governance.

As always, our nonprofit newsroom is dedicated to bringing you accurate and unbiased reporting. We rely on the support of our readers to sustain our local reporting and keep it freely available to all New Yorkers. Join our community and contribute to the local news that New York City truly deserves.