New York City Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Federal Charges

Eric Adams Indicted on Federal Charges

Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, has been indicted on federal charges of bribery, fraud, and soliciting illegal foreign campaign donations. This marks the first time a sitting mayor of the city has faced federal criminal charges.

Adams, a Democrat, maintains his innocence and has stated that he will not resign, despite calls from numerous elected officials to do so. The indictment was unsealed yesterday morning following a search of the mayor's official residence. Adams is scheduled to appear for an arraignment later today, where he will be formally informed of his rights and enter a plea, which is expected to be not guilty.

The investigation into Adams began in 2021 and focused on allegations that he conspired with the Turkish government to receive illegal foreign campaign contributions in exchange for acting on its behalf. Prosecutors claim that this "multiyear scheme" began when Adams was a high-ranking elected official in Brooklyn and continued after he became mayor.

According to the indictment, Adams has "sought and accepted improper valuable benefits" since at least 2014. These benefits allegedly included luxury travel – free and discounted Turkish Airlines tickets, complimentary meals, and hotel rooms – from wealthy foreigners and at least one Turkish government official.