New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing federal criminal charges, as reported by News Agency.
Adams, 64, was elected nearly three years ago with a commitment to curb crime, but both he and several of his top officials have been under increasing scrutiny as part of multiple federal corruption investigations.
While the indictment remains sealed, it would make Adams the first sitting mayor in the city’s history to face charges. In a video statement released Wednesday, Adams pledged to fight the allegations and remain in office, asking New Yorkers for “prayers and patience.”
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He asserted his innocence, stating, “I will fight these injustices with all my strength and spirit,” and expressed his desire for a swift trial to present the truth to New Yorkers. Addressing calls for his resignation, Adams acknowledged concerns but vowed to continue leading the city while facing the accusations.
Federal prosecutors are expected to unseal the indictment on Thursday, at which time Adams is set to appear in court, according to CBS News.
The charges follow federal agents’ seizure of Adams’ electronic devices and the search of his chief fundraiser Brianna Suggs’ home less than a year ago. Investigators are reportedly examining whether his 2021 mayoral campaign colluded with the Turkish government to funnel illegal contributions.
Additionally, The New York Times reported that prosecutors have subpoenaed the mayor’s office and campaign for information related to five other countries: Israel, China, Qatar, South Korea, and Uzbekistan.
Despite growing pressure, Adams has remained firm in his decision to stay in office, even as calls for his resignation increase. Earlier on Wednesday, US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a leading progressive figure, called for him to step down, citing the city’s “flood of resignations and vacancies” affecting its governance.
Adams’ indictment follows recent federal investigations targeting people closely connected to him, including schools chancellor David Banks, his brother Deputy Mayor Phil Banks, and his fiancée Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, whose electronic devices were seized. David Banks also announced his resignation effective at the end of the year.
Meanwhile, another brother, Terence Banks, is under investigation for potential bribery linked to his consulting firm and city contracts. Former Police Commissioner Edward Caban’s twin brother is also under scrutiny for bribery, and federal agents seized Caban’s phone weeks before he resigned.
In the last two weeks, the mayor’s chief legal counsel and the city health commissioner have resigned as well.
Adams, only the second Black mayor of New York City, is facing a growing number of Democratic challengers ahead of his re-election bid next year. Governor Kathy Hochul, a close ally, has yet to comment but holds the authority to remove him from office. If Adams’ tenure is cut short, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would be next in line to serve as acting mayor.
