Two NYPD Deputy Chiefs, Maximo Tolentino and Victoria Perry, are facing accusations of steering department funds toward a Bronx restaurant owned by the brother of former Police Commissioner Edward Caban. A complaint filed with the Department of Investigation (DOI) alleges that the chiefs pushed for events to be held at Con Sofrito, a restaurant owned by Richard Caban, a retired NYPD officer.
According to the complaint, the chiefs instructed their subordinates to prioritize Con Sofrito for community events, reportedly stating that doing so would “make the big boss happy,” a reference to then-Commissioner Caban. Between October 2022 and January 2023, the NYPD held multiple events at the restaurant, spending between $5,000 and $8,000 per event.
One of the notable events was a “Winter Wonderland” celebration, where officers distributed toys to children. The whistleblower claims these gatherings were part of a pattern of misuse of city resources to benefit the Caban family.
Perry, who recently received a promotion to deputy chief, earned $214,218 in 2023, while Tolentino made $233,000, according to public records. The complaint has reportedly sparked a federal investigation, though Perry has denied claims that her electronic devices were seized by investigators.
Richard Caban’s twin brother, James, is also under federal scrutiny for allegedly using his connections to assist high-end Manhattan restaurants and nightclubs in dealing with law enforcement. Both the NYPD and DOI have yet to comment on the ongoing investigation.
This controversy adds to the growing number of investigations into Mayor Eric Adams’ inner circle, with five separate probes currently underway.
