‘Again & Again, For Years’: Read the Corruption Allegations Against Mayor Eric Adams
A federal indictment revealed on Thursday claims that Adams accepted bribes, which included unlawful campaign donations and extravagant travel benefits, from Turkish individuals and at least one official, while he was serving as both mayor and Brooklyn borough president.
Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office can be rephrased as: Ed Reed/Office of the Mayor Photography
A federal indictment revealed on Thursday charges Eric Adams with taking bribes, which include unlawful campaign donations and luxury travel benefits, from Turkish citizens while he was serving as mayor and previously as the president of the Brooklyn borough. According to investigators, he offered "preferential treatment in return for the illegal advantages he gained," such as influencing Fire Department officials to authorize the development of a Manhattan high-rise that accommodates the Turkish Consulate.
Adams insisted he is not guilty and pledged to continue his role while addressing reporters in a tumultuous press conference on Thursday morning. He is up against five allegations, which include wire fraud and accepting campaign donations from foreign individuals. If found guilty on all charges, he could potentially be sentenced to up to 45 years in prison, as stated in a joint announcement from the U.S. Southern District of New York, the FBI, and the city’s Department of Investigation.
"According to U.S. Attorney Damian Williams, this arrangement spanned several years and aimed to gain the support of an emerging politician in New York City: Eric Adams," he stated during a press conference on Thursday morning where he outlined the accusations.
Federal authorities have charged the mayor with soliciting and accepting straw donations—where funds are directed from one donor while pretending to be from someone else—to bypass campaign finance regulations. These rules set limits on the amount individuals or organizations can contribute, and they also ban foreign donations. These tactics resulted in the mayor's 2021 election campaign receiving $10 million in matching funds from the city's public financing initiative, designed to enhance the influence of smaller, local donors by matching their contributions with government funds, up to a specified limit.
According to Williams, several of the same people who donated in questionable ways also provided Adams with benefits that he did not report as required by the city's conflict of interest regulations. These benefits reportedly included over $100,000 worth of high-end travel perks, such as complimentary business class international flights and accommodations in lavish hotels abroad.
"Serving in public office is a privilege. We claim that Mayor Adams misused that privilege and violated the law—laws meant to guarantee that officials like him prioritize the needs of the people over those of wealthy individuals, foreign entities, or foreign governments," Williams stated. "These are clear boundaries, and we assert that the mayor has repeatedly crossed them over the years."
On Thursday morning, Adams held a bold press conference in the rain outside Gracie Mansion. With a small tent providing some shelter, he was joined by supporters and members of the clergy. While he spoke, some onlookers called for his resignation.
"I urge New Yorkers to listen to our side of the story before jumping to conclusions," he stated, asserting that he is being unjustly portrayed in a negative light and rejecting demands for him to step down. "I will keep serving the 8.3 million people who elected me to this position."
Adams refuted claims that he received unlawful donations for his campaign.
"I've been involved in numerous campaigns. I always adhere to the regulations and the law," he stated. "We steer clear of straw donors and foreign donors. We understand the guidelines and make sure to follow them, and I believe my lawyers will demonstrate that as we progress."
Despite his attempts to reassure them, several local leaders urged Adams to resign on Thursday. They argued that the allegations against him and the ongoing legal issues would divert attention from the regular governance activities, especially as the city confronts various challenges, such as unprecedented levels of homelessness and a lack of affordable housing.
Ed Reed/Office of Mayoral Photography
The advocacy group Reinvent Albany urged Governor Kathy Hochul to dismiss Adams from his position, citing her authority under Section 34 of the New York State Public Officers Law. The governor's office has not yet responded to a request for comment.
"The organization stated that if the Mayor chooses not to step down, he could hinder a smooth and democratic transition of power, causing the city government to remain in a state of paralysis."
As outlined in the City Charter, if the mayor’s position is left open, the authority will transfer to the city’s public advocate, followed by the comptroller. The person stepping in as acting mayor must announce a special election within three days of taking on the role so that voters can select a new mayor.
On Thursday, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams released a statement that didn't directly demand Mayor Adams' resignation, but conveyed his shock and anger regarding the details of the indictment.
"This is a difficult period, and the many unknowns and uncertainties only contribute to the confusion and disorder at City Hall in an already challenging situation," he stated.
"It’s up to federal officials to make their case, while it's the mayor's responsibility to demonstrate to New Yorkers that there's a genuine strategy in place for effectively managing the city and restoring trust," Williams added. "His opportunity to present that strategy is quickly slipping away."
You can view the complete charges against Adams below, or by clicking here. City Limits has also compiled some key points from the 57-page document:
Southern District of New York
Federal Charges Filed Against … by City Limits (New York)
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