New York City’s sanitation chief, Jessica Tisch, is shifting her focus from tackling rodent issues to addressing crime in the city.

On Wednesday, Mayor Eric Adams appointed Tisch as the new police commissioner, making her the second woman to hold this position in the largest city in the U.S. This decision comes as Adams seeks to stabilize his administration in light of an impending corruption trial and ongoing federal investigations.

Tisch takes over for interim commissioner Tom Donlon and Edward Caban, the previous commissioner who stepped down in September during an inquiry into the NYPD’s enforcement of nightclub rules.

“New Yorkers need a capable leader who can effectively reduce crime and maintain safety,” Adams stated. “I believe Jessica Tisch is that leader.”

Currently, Tisch oversees the city’s extensive $1.9 billion sanitation and recycling operation. She garnered attention in 2022 when she declared a campaign against rats, stating, “Rats don’t control this city; we do.”

Her appointment is seen as a culmination of efforts led by New York Governor Kathy Hochul to reorganize and stabilize the city following Adams’ September 26 indictment on federal bribery allegations and various search warrants on his close associates, according to sources familiar with the situation.

Adams has denied the allegations and is scheduled to stand trial in April.

Along with Caban, Adams’ administration has witnessed the exits of two deputy mayors, the schools chancellor, two close advisors, and numerous other officials, all facing federal subpoenas amid at least three corruption investigations.

Before heading the Sanitation Department, Tisch had experience as the deputy police commissioner for information technology and as the citywide information technology commissioner. She is the daughter of billionaire James Tisch, who is the CEO of Loews Corp. and a former CBS chairman.

“Having experienced the dedication involved in policing, I was proud to work closely with both officers and staff to advance the NYPD into a new era of technological improvements,” Tisch remarked in her statement.

Acting Commissioner Donlon, a former FBI official from the Bronx, reportedly wished to continue in the role. His chief of staff, Tarik Sheppard, was also considered for the position, and the two had a public dispute prior to the New York Marathon last month.

“Disagreements are normal when passionate people collide,” Adams commented regarding the incident, which was a significant lapse in police decorum. “Just because you argue with someone doesn’t mean you do not care for them.”

Tisch spent 12 years as a civilian employee with the NYPD.

The Legal Aid Society expressed optimism that Tisch’s leadership as NYPD Commissioner would instigate considerable reforms in an agency that desperately needs it.

The organization, which assists low-income criminal defendants, emphasized Tisch’s influence on increasing surveillance technology within the NYPD, a practice they advocate for reducing and monitoring more stringently.

Others have praised her appointment as well.

“Jessica Tisch possesses significant management experience and a deep understanding of the NYPD, which is vital in this role,” stated Kathryn Wylde, CEO of the Partnership for New York City, a nonprofit organization representing major corporate leaders in New York. “Right now, it is crucial to have someone known for strong leadership and management skills.”