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A Manhattan grand jury has indicted New York City Mayor Eric Adams on federal charges, but the specifics of these charges remain under seal. The indictment might be made public later today.
Raids connected to this investigation have already occurred involving individuals associated with Adams, who is a former NYPD captain. Neither the FBI nor the DOJ have provided comments on the matter, and it’s currently unknown who is representing Adams legally.
The FBI’s investigation into New York City Mayor Eric Adams’s 2021 mayoral campaign involves allegations of a conspiracy with the Turkish government and other entities for fundraising, potentially through illegal foreign donations. This inquiry centers on whether there was a scheme involving straw donors, where foreign nationals, including those linked to the Turkish government, might have contributed to Adams’s campaign under the names of individuals who did not actually provide the funds.
In February, FBI agents raided the Bronx home of Winnie Greco, a top aide to Mayor Eric Adams. In November, they searched the property of Cenk Ocal, a former Turkish Airlines executive and member of Adams’ transition team, and also visited Brianna Suggs, the mayor’s chief fundraiser. In May, another aide, Rana Abbasova, reportedly cooperated with investigators amid scrutiny over Adams’ connections to Turkish Airlines, according to The New York Times.
Adams released a statement Wednesday night, claiming his innocence and deeming himself a target: “I always knew that If I stood my ground for New Yorkers that I would be a target—and a target I became. If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”
Following the announcement, city officials urged the mayor to resign, such as New York City Comptroller Brad Lander:
“Mayor Adams, like all New Yorkers, deserves due process, the presumption of innocence, and his day in court. However, it is clear that defending himself against serious federal charges will require a significant amount of the time and attention needed to govern this great city. The most appropriate path forward is for him to step down so that New York City can get the full focus its leadership demands.”
We want to ask you, the reader: will Mayor Adams step down following his indictment? Answer in our poll below and comment your thoughts on the timing of the investigation into Adams.
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