Federal prosecutors have unsealed a 57-page, five-count indictment against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, accusing him of taking bribes from foreign nationals and committing various fraudulent activities over nearly a decade. The accusations have led to a significant political upheaval, with several high-profile resignations within Adams’ administration.
Adams, who won the mayoral election in 2021 on a pro-NYPD platform, staunchly denies the charges. “The charges are entirely false and based on lies,” he said. “I will fight these injustices with every ounce of my strength and my spirit.”
The Department of Justice alleges that Adams engaged in a series of corrupt activities, including accepting luxury travel and other gifts from foreign nationals in exchange for political favors. The indictment also accuses him of using a donation-matching program to siphon off $10 million in public funds.
As reported by NBC, the indictment paints a detailed picture of Adams’ alleged misconduct. For instance, Adams is accused of accepting heavily discounted or free flights on a Turkish airline, which is partially owned by the Turkish government. These flights took him to various international destinations, including France, China, and Turkey. Prosecutors allege that Adams fabricated paper trails to conceal these transactions.
One particularly damning piece of evidence is a text exchange between a Turkish businessman and an aide to Adams. The businessman suggested raising funds for Adams’ campaign off the record, to which the aide responded cautiously but promised to discuss it with Adams.
Further allegations include Adams’ efforts to expedite the opening of a 36-floor building that would house the Turkish consulate, despite numerous defects identified by the New York Fire Department. This expedited process was allegedly done in exchange for the various luxurious benefits Adams received from Turkish nationals.
The indictment also reveals that Adams allegedly used “straw donors” to funnel illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals. These donors would donate in their name but were reimbursed by the foreign nationals, effectively hiding the true source of the funds.
Adams’ legal troubles have already had a ripple effect within his administration. Police commissioner Edward Caban and mayoral legal adviser Lisa Zornberg have resigned amidst the scandal.
In a press conference outside his residence, Adams maintained his innocence. “It’s an unfortunate day. And it’s a painful day,” he said. “But I look forward to defending myself.”
The fallout from Adams’ legal troubles extends beyond his administration. Democratic congressional members, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Nydia M. Velázquez, have called for his resignation. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and New York Governor Kathy Hochul have also weighed in, with Hochul suggesting that Adams needs to review his situation to ensure he can effectively serve the people of New York City.
If Adams were to step down, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would become acting mayor, triggering a special election.
The indictment has significant implications for Adams’ political future, especially as he seeks re-election in 2025. The field of challengers is already growing, with New York City Comptroller Brad Lander and state senators Zellnor Myrie and Jessica Ramos announcing their intentions to run.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Adams continues to assert that he has done nothing wrong and has no plans to resign. “You elected me to lead this city—and lead it I will,” he said in a video statement.
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**WP SEO Title:** Eric Adams Indicted for Bribery and Fraud
**WP Meta Description:** NYC Mayor Eric Adams faces federal indictment for bribery and fraud, accused of accepting illegal gifts and campaign contributions from foreign nationals.
**Excerpt:** NYC Mayor Eric Adams is facing federal charges of bribery and fraud, accused of taking illegal gifts and campaign contributions. The indictment has led to high-profile resignations and calls for his resignation.
**Tags:** Eric Adams, federal indictment, bribery, fraud, New York City, Turkish nationals, campaign contributions, political scandal, legal troubles, 2021 mayoral election