September 26, 2024 at 1:12 AM GMT
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted following a federal corruption investigation, marking a significant twist in the career of the city’s second Black mayor. Adams, who ascended to the mayoralty in 2021 on a platform of law enforcement enhancement and government efficacy, is now under intense scrutiny.
The investigation into Adams’ administration came to light with the FBI’s raid on a campaign fundraiser’s home in November last year, and it has since intensified, leading to the recent resignations of key advisors including the mayor’s chief counsel and the police commissioner. Additionally, two former fire department officials have been implicated in bribery charges.
While the details of the indictment remain confidential, the potential charges against Mayor Adams are yet unknown, as indicated by sources who preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the information.
In response to the indictment, 64-year-old Adams has firmly stated his intention to continue serving as mayor and to contest any charges brought against him. His legal team maintains that there has been no evidence of wrongdoing by Adams found in their investigations.
This scenario places Adams’ administration among a rare group of mayoral offices subjected to such extensive federal scrutiny, involving not only the breadth of the investigations but also their reach into the upper echelons of city administration.
Among the inquiries, the Manhattan U.S. Attorney’s office is examining possible illegal coordination between Adams’ campaign and the Turkish government, specifically regarding campaign donations and alleged pressure on city fire department officials to green-light building permits for a Turkish consulate despite safety issues.
A separate federal probe emerged publicly in February when agents investigated properties associated with Winnie Greco, a prominent fundraiser for Adams, and a shopping mall where she hosted campaign events. Investigations suggest that donors at the mall were either reimbursed for their contributions to Adams or were unaware of donations made in their names, according to The City, a nonprofit news outlet. Greco has also faced scrutiny from New York City’s Department of Investigation regarding other ethical concerns.
Scrutiny of New York City Mayor Eric Adams and his administration has escalated rapidly since September 4, when federal agents launched targeted actions against top city officials. The sweep included searches at the residences of First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, City Schools Chancellor David Banks, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks, and Police Commissioner Edward Caban. These individuals had their homes searched or cell phones seized, linking them to two new investigations spearheaded by the Manhattan US Attorney’s Office.
Following these incidents, Commissioner Caban resigned, citing the distraction caused by the investigation. Banks has announced his intention to resign at the year’s end, while Lisa Zornberg, the chief counsel to the mayor’s office, abruptly resigned on September 14.
Despite the turmoil, Mayor Adams has declared that these investigations do not hinder his administrative duties. He addressed potential charges in a video message, acknowledging that some might suggest his resignation if charged, as it could impede his ability to govern. However, Adams emphasized his resilience and continued commitment to New York City’s improvement, asserting his intention to persist in his role.
Yet, the depth of these probes and ongoing negative media coverage have amplified calls for Adams’ resignation. US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, alongside prominent Democrats and mayoral challengers Scott Stringer and State Senator Zellnor Myrie, have publicly urged Adams to step down. They argue that the city requires a leader undistracted by legal battles, especially when tackling significant issues like housing affordability and public safety.
Should Adams resign, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would assume the mayoral role immediately, as stated by election law expert Jerry Goldfeder. Moreover, a vacancy occurring more than 90 days before the scheduled primary would necessitate a special election within three days.
Additionally, Governor Kathy Hochul holds the authority to remove Adams from office should formal charges be brought, with a possible suspension lasting up to 30 days during proceedings. The so-called inability committee, which includes several city officials who have called for Adams’ resignation, could also declare him unfit to serve, requiring the agreement of four out of its five members.
These developments occur as Mayor Adams navigates a term marked by unprecedented challenges, including managing the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing the influx of over 200,000 migrants. While Adams claims progress in reducing major felony crimes, the city continues to grapple with significant issues across various departments. Recent events underscore the pressures facing his administration, notably the potential federal takeover of the city’s jail system, highlighting ongoing administrative difficulties.
This case, handled by Manhattan US Attorney Damian Williams, is part of a broader effort to tackle public corruption, with recent notable prosecutions including that of New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez. Amid these challenges, longtime friend and civil rights attorney Norman Siegel voiced concerns for Adams, noting his longstanding disinterest in monetary gain and his high value on loyalty.