Eric Adams, the Mayor of New York City, has been charged with wire fraud, federal program bribery, and receiving illegal campaign contributions by foreign nationals, among other counts. The indictment alleges that Adams sought and accepted illegal campaign contributions through straw donors, deceiving federal laws designed to prevent foreign influence on US elections. The charges also include allegations of Adams receiving luxury international trips and other benefits from wealthy foreign businessmen, with some ties to the Turkish government.
Following a raid on Gracie Mansion, Adams has maintained his innocence and vowed to fight the charges. The indictment also alleges that Adams intervened in the New York City fire department’s inspection process for a building owned by the Turkish government, allowing it to open without passing the necessary fire safety inspection. The indictment further claims Adams failed to disclose luxury trips and gifts received in violation of federal law.
The federal prosecutors plan to hold a press conference to announce the charges against Adams. The Southern District of New York attorney general, Damian Williams, has called Adams’ alleged conduct a “grave breach of the public’s trust” and vowed to continue the investigation to hold more people accountable for corruption. Mayor Adams has refused to resign, asserting that he was elected to lead the city and will continue to do so while facing the accusations.
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