Weeks of speculation ceased on November 20 when Mayor Eric Adams announced the appointment of Jessica Tisch as the new New York Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner. Tisch's elevation to this pivotal role makes her the fourth individual to hold the position since Adams took office in January 2022. Her appointment arrives at a tumultuous time for the department, which has been grappling with high turnover rates and dwindling morale among its ranks.
Jessica Tisch, 43, is no stranger to city government. Coming from one of New York City's prominent families, which co-owns half of the New York Giants and the Loew's Corp. chain of movie theaters, Tisch has served as the Sanitation Commissioner since 2022, prior to her latest appointment. Though she has never worn the NYPD uniform, Tisch has accumulated twelve years of experience within the department, holding various roles focused on anti-terrorism and technology. She has been instrumental as the deputy mayor for information and technology, where she championed efforts to equip all NYPD officers with iPhones, enhancing communication and operational efficiency.
During the announcement, Adams praised Tisch, labeling her as a "battle-tested leader" who will tackle crime effectively and assure New Yorkers feel safe. He highlighted the need for innovative leadership, stating, "I need someone who can take the Police Department to the next century. I need a visionary." Indeed, Tisch's ascent to Commissioner is seen as part of Adams' strategy to revitalize the department amid recent challenges.
Tisch's appointment replaces Acting Commissioner Tom Donlon, who assumed the role just two months prior, after former Commissioner Edward Caban resigned under pressure during the investigations surrounding Adams and his administration. Caban's resignation came amid federal investigations, raising serious questions about corruption and conduct within the department. Adams himself is currently facing bribery and corruption charges, which he staunchly denies, maintaining his innocence as he prepares for the upcoming Democratic primary.
The NYPD's turmoil can be traced through several leadership changes since Adams took office. Caban replaced Keechant Sewell, the department's first female commissioner, who stepped down after alleged conflicts with Adams over the department's direction and management. Donlon’s brief tenure was marred by turbulence as he engaged publicly with deputy mayor Tarik Sheppard under contentious circumstances at the NYC Marathon. Notably, Donlon's own home was raided by federal agents just days after stepping up, with the investigation reportedly tied to his former FBI work.
While the challenges facing Tisch are significant, she brings with her extensive knowledge of the department's inner workings and the technological advancements needed to modernize police operations. Nevertheless, the department faces pressing issues, with Police Benevolent Association (PBA) President Patrick Hendry warning of the alarming rate at which officers are leaving. According to Hendry, the department is losing around 200 officers monthly, with one recent survey indicating 25 percent of cops express intentions to depart.
"Through the numerous recent changes in the NYPD’s leadership, the challenges confronting police officers on the street have remained the same," Hendry remarked after Tisch's appointment. He stressed the importance of support for officers who feel overwhelmed and overworked. "We are critically understaffed, massively overworked, and completely unsupported by a justice system and oversight regime focused more on punishing cops than helping us keep dangerous criminals off the streets," he added.
Adams, during the announcement of Tisch's appointment, also revealed plans to restore two police academy classes, increasing the total to seven next year. This decision follows budget cuts from the previous year which had reduced the number of classes from seven to five, considerably impacting the department's recruitment efforts.
Despite the obstacles she faces, many observers view Tisch’s hiring as a necessary step toward bolstering what has become a beleaguered department. The department not only needs effective leadership to navigate through the current turbulence but also aims to improve its compatibility between law enforcement practices and community interactions. Adams expressed hope for the future, emphasizing the significant strides he believes Tisch can make toward establishing effective policing and enhancing safety across New York City.
Following her appointment, Jessica Tisch reiterated her commitment to fostering safer streets and restoring confidence among New Yorkers and the police force. Only time will tell how effective her strategies will be and what impact her leadership will have on the department and the city at large.
