He’s charged with taking illegal donations.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams requested prayers from his supporters just before being formally indicted on charges of corruption. Adams is accused of accepting $10 million in bribes and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals in exchange for political favors. In a statement, he denied the accusations, calling them false and based on lies, but said he expected the charges, believing they stemmed from his political battles with the federal government, particularly over immigration policies.
The indictment accuses Adams of a decade-long pattern of corruption, starting when he became Brooklyn Borough President in 2014. It alleges that he accepted benefits like luxury international travel from foreign businesspeople and a Turkish government official in exchange for political influence. As Adams’ power grew, especially during his mayoral campaign, these benefactors allegedly sought to capitalize on their relationship with him for favorable treatment.
In his response, Adams stated that he anticipated being targeted for his stance against the federal government’s handling of immigration, which he said has burdened New York City’s shelter system. He emphasized his innocence and expressed his desire for an immediate trial so that the truth could come out. Adams also highlighted that he has spent his career fighting injustice, and this situation is another chapter in that ongoing battle.
On Thursday, federal agents raided Adams’ official residence and seized his phone. Adams’ attorney criticized the raid as a needless spectacle and noted that Adams had not been arrested. The mayor’s legal team emphasized their willingness to cooperate with authorities and portrayed the raid as an attempt to publicly embarrass him.
Despite the legal challenges, Adams reaffirmed his commitment to serving as mayor and leading New York City. He called on New Yorkers for their patience and prayers, vowing to fight the charges and continue his leadership throughout the legal process.