Mayor de Blasio, NYPD commissioner on defensive over investigations

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Separate federal investigations have put both the NYPD and New York City's mayor on the defensive Tuesday.

During a news conference, Police Commissioner Bill Bratton defended his department regarding the corruption investigation, and Mayor Bill de Blasio faced questions about subpoenas to his aides over fundraising.

"Things were done legally and appropriately," de Blasio said.

Bratton insisted the allegations are not widespread, as the shakeup at the NYPD continues.

"This is not the Knapp days all over again," Bratton said.

The commissioner confirmed Tuesday that Internal Affairs Inspector Terence Moore will head the department's handgun division, following the arrest of Brooklyn businessman Shay Lichtenstein on bribery charges.

Prosecutors said Lichtenstein made thousands brokering gun licenses through his connections to an officer and a sergeant. They, along with the division's commanding officer, have been transferred.

The commissioner also confirmed that roughly 250 permits are under review. Of those, 17 were either revoked or are about to be revoked.

Five other NYPD commanders with ties to South Brooklyn businessmen have already been transferred.

As for the mayor's own Brooklyn connection, de Blasio said every campaign dollar was legally raised - including donations intended to help democrats for state office.

"I don't think there's anything unusual. That's normal," de Blasio said.