New York’s sanitation chief, a prominent heiress, is transitioning from tackling rodent issues to addressing crime in the city.

On Wednesday, Mayor Eric Adams appointed Jessica Tisch as the NYPD’s new police commissioner, making her the second woman to hold this role in New York City, which has the largest police force in the country. This decision comes as Adams strives to stabilize his administration amidst an impending corruption trial and ongoing federal probes.

Tisch succeeds interim commissioner Tom Donlon and former commissioner Edward Caban, who resigned in September due to investigations into how the NYPD enforced nightclub regulations.

“City residents require a robust, experienced leader committed to reducing crime and ensuring safety for all New Yorkers,” Adams stated. “I believe Commissioner Jessica Tisch is perfectly suited for this challenge.”

Currently overseeing a significant $1.9 billion sanitation operation, Tisch made headlines in 2022 when she declared a “war on rats,” asserting: “Rats don’t run this city. We do.”

Her appointment is part of an initiative backed by New York Governor Kathy Hochul aimed at restoring stability in the city following Adams’ indictment on federal bribery charges on September 26 and various searches that focused on his associates, according to sources familiar with the situation.

Adams has pleaded not guilty and will face trial in April.

Along with Caban, the previous police commissioner, Adams’ administration has seen the exit of two deputy mayors, the schools chancellor, two advisers, and several other officials, all of whom have been issued federal subpoenas in multiple corruption investigations.

Before leading what is known as one of the largest sanitation departments globally, Tisch worked as the deputy police commissioner for information technology and led the citywide IT department. She is the daughter of billionaire James Tisch, CEO of Loews Corp., and a former CBS chairman.

“I have personally witnessed the deep honor of policing, and I am pleased to have collaborated with both uniformed officers and civilians to advance the NYPD into a new era of technology,” Tisch remarked.

Acting Commissioner Donlon, a Bronx-native and former FBI official, reportedly wished to remain in his position. His chief of staff, Tarik Sheppard, was also noted as a candidate for the role. Tensions had flared between the two during a public disagreement before the New York Marathon last month.

When asked about this controversy, Adams responded, “Are disagreements inevitable when discussing passionate topics? Absolutely. Having a disagreement with your spouse, child, or business partner doesn’t mean there’s no love or respect.”

Tisch has dedicated 12 years to the NYPD as a civilian employee.

The city’s Legal Aid Society expressed optimism that Tisch’s appointment as NYPD Commissioner would introduce significant reforms to a city agency in dire need of change.

Representing low-income criminal defendants, the group pointed out Tisch’s influence in enhancing the NYPD’s surveillance technology usage, a practice they believe should be restricted and more closely monitored.

The response to her appointment has largely been positive.

“Jessica Tisch brings valuable management experience and thorough knowledge of the NYPD to this role,” stated Kathryn Wylde, CEO of the Partnership for New York City, which represents the city’s corporate leaders. “In these challenging times, it’s crucial to have a leader known for their competence and strong management capabilities.”