In a series of questionable staffing decisions, Mayor Eric Adams of New York City has come under fire for appointing individuals with checkered pasts and controversial backgrounds. The forced resignation of NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, following a federal raid on his home, has further intensified concerns about the mayor's judgment when it comes to his hiring choices.

From the outset of his administration, Adams faced scrutiny for appointing individuals with problematic histories. One such appointment was Phil Banks, the former NYPD chief who had previously accepted gifts from individuals convicted of bribery. Adams named Banks as the deputy mayor of public safety, despite his past transgressions.

Another controversial appointment made by Adams was Tim Pearson, his old police boss and personal friend, who was given a powerful advisory role and control over a new municipal office with unchecked power. Pearson is currently facing sexual harassment lawsuits, with one accuser alleging that his behavior had been common knowledge for years. These allegations have given rise to questions about why Adams hired Pearson despite being aware of his history of misconduct.

The list of controversial appointments does not end there. Jeffrey Maddrey, whom the mayor named chief of the NYPD, was accused of punching a fellow cop with whom he had a coerced sexual relationship. Although the case was eventually dismissed, Maddrey faced internal consequences, including the docking of 45 vacation days.

Adams' former chief of staff is currently involved in litigation over past business dealings, and his ex-buildings commissioner resigned amid an investigation that resulted in an indictment on bribery charges. Additionally, Adams' personal connections have raised eyebrows, with close friendships with individuals who have pleaded guilty to financial crimes and a pastor who was recently sentenced to jail for stealing from a parishioner's mother's retirement savings.

Criticism of Adams' hiring decisions has been mounting, with nearly every Democrat challenging him in the upcoming mayoral primary focusing on his perceived ethical lapses. Scott Stringer, the former city comptroller expected to run against Adams, commented on his poor choices, stating that they had come back to haunt him.

While many of Adams' appointees have proven to be capable and reputable, the growing number of individuals enmeshed in scandal raises concerns about the mayor's judgment and loyalty to troubled aides. Critics, including political science professor Christina Greer, have questioned why someone in Adams' position would surround himself with unsavory characters who have been accused of violence and misconduct.

Adams has defended his choices by emphasizing his belief in giving people second chances and his own imperfect past. However, his history of alliances with controversial figures, from Louis Farrakhan to Mike Tyson, has long drawn criticism.

As the federal investigation continues and more of Adams' associates face scrutiny, it remains to be seen how the mayor will navigate these challenges. Some have urged him to reevaluate his loyalty and make tough judgment calls in the best interest of New York City. State Sen. James Sanders, who previously endorsed Adams, expressed faith that the mayor will learn valuable lessons from these situations.

With the specter of ethical lapses hanging over his administration, Mayor Adams faces an uphill battle to regain trust and address the growing concerns about his staffing decisions.