UPDATE: New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on five federal charges, including bribery, wire fraud, conspiracy, and soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals.
The 57-page indictment alleges that Adams engaged in illegal activities dating back to his time as Brooklyn Borough President in 2014.
He is accused of accepting luxury travel and benefits from a Turkish official in exchange for political favors, including pressuring the NYC Fire Department to approve a Turkish consular building without proper inspections.
The indictment details how Adams received free or discounted travel on Turkey’s national airline, along with accommodations at opulent hotels and expensive entertainment, which he failed to disclose as required by law.
He also allegedly sought and accepted illegal campaign donations, with businesses using “straw donations” to bypass New York City’s corporate contribution ban.
Adams has denied wrongdoing, stating he is not surprised by the charges and that he looks forward to defending himself.
If Adams resigns, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would take over as interim mayor.
The charges cast a significant shadow over Adams’ political career, which began with a tough-on-crime agenda but has since faced criticism over handling issues like immigration and city spending.
Read the original post below.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is at the center of a federal investigation after a group of federal agents arrived at Gracie Mansion early this morning.
The agents reportedly subpoenaed Mayor Eric Adams, marking a significant moment in NYC’s political history as the mayor faces potential indictment.
About a dozen agents, accompanied by NYPD officers, were seen entering through the East Gate, with reports indicating they spent over an hour inside the residence.
Adams’ attorney, Alex Spiro, addressed the situation, stating that the federal agents were there to seize Eric Adams’ cellphone, despite the mayor’s willingness to turn it over.
In a video statement, Eric Adams reassured New Yorkers of his innocence, declaring, “I always knew that standing my ground for New Yorkers would make me a target, and a target I became.”
He emphasized his commitment to the city, stating, “If I am charged, I will fight this with every ounce of my strength.”
This investigation is believed to stem from Adams’ 2021 fundraising efforts.
While formal charges remain under wraps, U.S. Attorney Damien Williams is expected to announce the details later today.
The situation leaves many wondering about Eric Adams’ future as the first sitting mayor of New York City to face an indictment.
Should Adams resign, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams is next in line to step in temporarily, pending a special election.
As the political drama unfolds, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating that her office is closely monitoring developments.
Adams’ administration has been under scrutiny for nearly a year, with several of his closest allies, including former Police Commissioner Edward Caban and Schools Chancellor David Banks, also facing federal investigations.
The looming indictment threatens to reshape the political landscape of NYC as more details emerge.
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Source: ABC7NY
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