NYC Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Federal Charges of Bribery and Fraud

Mayor Eric Adams of New York City is facing federal charges of bribery conspiracy, fraud, and soliciting illegal foreign campaign donations, according to an indictment unsealed on Thursday. The three-year investigation focused on Adams’s alleged ties to the Turkish government and his acceptance of illegal contributions during his 2021 mayoral campaign.

The indictment accuses Adams of not only accepting illegal foreign donations but also seeking them out for future elections. It alleges that Adams granted favors to those who supported his mayoral bid and planned to continue soliciting illegal donations even after taking office.

One of the most significant allegations involves Adams’s relationship with a senior official in the Turkish diplomatic establishment. This official is said to have facilitated illegal donations and provided Adams with luxury gifts, including discounted flights on Turkish Airlines and stays at high-end hotels.

Businesses are also implicated in the indictment for bypassing campaign finance rules by funneling large donations through employees to secure public matching funds illegally for Adams. The mayor allegedly used straw donors to conceal these illicit contributions.

Despite the inconvenience, Adams allegedly flew Turkish Airlines due to his free travel benefits, valued at tens of thousands of dollars. One instance highlighted in the indictment involved Adams’s partner being surprised to learn he was in Turkey when she believed he was flying to France.

This developing story has sent shockwaves through New York City politics, as Mayor Eric Adams faces serious legal challenges that could impact his future in office.