New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been charged with five federal crimes, including wire fraud, bribery, and soliciting contributions from a foreign national, as detailed in a 57-page indictment made public on Thursday.
Prosecutors from the Southern District of New York allege that Adams accepted luxurious international trips from a wealthy businessman and a Turkish government official for nearly ten years.
In 2017, when Adams was Brooklyn Borough President, he allegedly accepted a significantly discounted stay at the St. Regis Istanbul, paying under $600 for a suite that would typically cost around $7,000.
According to the indictment, Adams failed to disclose this trip, violating his obligations as an elected official.
The indictment claims that as Adams gained more power, his foreign benefactors sought to capitalize on their relationship with him, particularly as he was on the verge of becoming mayor in 2021. In return for the benefits he received, Adams allegedly provided favorable treatment.
The indictment was released just hours after Adams pledged to vigorously fight the charges, while a growing number of politicians, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, called for his resignation.
The Adams administration has faced significant turmoil, with several top officials recently resigning.
Adams, addressing the charges, described the situation as “unfortunate” and “painful” but expressed confidence in his defense, asking New Yorkers to reserve judgment until all facts are presented.
The indictment was unsealed shortly after FBI agents searched his home and seized his phone for the second time.
