Thu Sep 26 13:33:22 UTC 2024: ## NYC Mayor Adams Indicted on Federal Corruption Charges

New York City Mayor Eric Adams was indicted Thursday on federal charges alleging he accepted bribes and illegal campaign contributions from foreign sources. The indictment, filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Manhattan, accuses Adams of soliciting and receiving bribes, including luxury travel benefits, from a Turkish official seeking his help with regulations related to the Turkish consulate in Manhattan.

The indictment further alleges that Adams amplified his gains from these illegal contributions by manipulating the city’s matching funds program, which offers matching funds for small-dollar donations. Adams allegedly submitted false certifications to receive over $10,000 in matching funds.

FBI agents raided Adams’ official residence, Gracie Mansion, early Thursday, seizing his phone hours before the indictment was made public. Adams’ lawyer, Alex Spiro, condemned the raid as unnecessary, stating they would have willingly provided the phone.

In a pre-recorded video released Wednesday night, Adams vowed to fight the charges, claiming he was targeted based on lies. Governor Kathy Hochul, who has the power to remove Adams from office, issued a statement acknowledging the “concerning news reports” and monitoring the situation.

This indictment comes amidst a period of intense scrutiny of Adams and his administration. In recent weeks, federal investigators have targeted members of his inner circle, conducting raids, issuing subpoenas, and leading to high-level resignations, including those of the city’s police commissioner and head of the school system.

Federal authorities are believed to be conducting multiple investigations involving Adams and his aides, focusing on campaign fundraising, potential influence peddling in the police and fire departments, and possible connections to the Turkish government. The FBI had previously seized Adams’ electronic devices nearly a year ago as part of an investigation into campaign contributions and his interactions with the Turkish government.

While the full scope of the investigation remains unclear, the indictment against Mayor Adams represents a significant escalation in the ongoing federal probe. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has scheduled a press conference for 11:30 am to discuss the charges.

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