NYC Mayor Eric Adams indicted after federal corruption investigation
What's the story
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted by a grand jury in a federal corruption investigation. The indictment is expected to be unsealed on Thursday, The Post reported. When the indictment is made public, Adams, a Democrat, will become the first New York City mayor to face a federal charge while in office. The retired police captain was elected as the city's 110th mayor nearly three years ago.
Accusations
Alleged Turkish government involvement in Adams's campaign
While the exact charges against Adams remain undisclosed, they are believed to be linked to allegations of the Turkish government illegally funding his mayoral campaign. In return, it is alleged that approval was granted for a Turkish consulate in Manhattan. The City reported that Adams is facing a charge of acting as an unregistered foreign agent after accepting donations from foreign entities.
Mayor's stance
Adams's response to indictment and pledge to fight
Adams has maintained his innocence, stating, "I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers that I would be a target—and a target I became." In a video statement, he pledged not to resign and announced his intention for an immediate trial so people can hear the truth. The Post reported that two others, Brianna Suggs, Adams's top campaign fundraiser, and Winnie Greco, his Director of Asian Affairs, are also expected to be named in the indictment.
Co-accused
Adams's associates also expected to be named in indictment
The unveiling of the indictment follows recent demands by federal prosecutors for all communications between the Adams administration, Turkey, and five other foreign countries. This is part of a long-running probe into alleged corruption within Adams's inner circle. In July, grand jury subpoenas were issued to Adams, City Hall and his election committee seeking details on interactions with officials from Israel, China, Qatar, South Korea and Uzbekistan.