Mayor Eric Adams charged with bribery and wire fraud

What we know about Eric Adams’ indictment:

• New York Mayor Eric Adams was served five charges: conspiracy to commit wire fraud, federal program bribery, and to receive campaign contributions by foreign nationals; wire fraud; solicitation of a contribution by a foreign national; solicitation of a contribution by a foreign national; and bribery.
• Mayor Adams strongly denied any wrongdoing in Thursday’s press conference. “I ask New Yorkers to wait to hear our defense before making any judgments,” he said. Federal prosecutors said the mayor repeatedly crossed “bright red lines.”
• His administration is feeling the heat from multiple high-level resignations and at least four federal probes.
• New York’s elite and national political circles called on Adams to resign last night.
• The FBI searched Adams’ home, Gracie Mansions, this morning, according to video from WNBC, NBC News, and multiple people familiar with the matter.

Bribery and Fraud

New York City Mayor Eric Adams faces five federal charges, including wire fraud, bribery, and solicitation of contributions from a foreign national, as detailed in a comprehensive 57-page federal indictment that was made public on Thursday.

Prosecutors from the Southern District of New York allege that Adams solicited and accepted luxurious international travel from a wealthy businessman and at least one official from the Turkish government over a span of nearly ten years. In 2017, during his tenure as Brooklyn Borough President, Adams reportedly accepted a significantly discounted stay at the St. Regis Istanbul, which is owned by a businesswoman who aimed to cultivate a favorable relationship with him, according to the indictment. While the Bentley Suite for a two-night stay would have amounted to approximately $7,000, Adams paid less than $600. Furthermore, he failed to disclose this trip, which was a requirement for elected officials.

The indictment states, “As Adams’ influence and authority increased, his foreign benefactors sought to exploit their corrupt connections with him, especially when it became evident in 2021 that he would assume the role of mayor of New York City. Adams acquiesced, offering preferential treatment in return for the illicit advantages he received.”