Federal corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been dropped, marking a significant development in a contentious legal battle. The charges, which included five counts of fraud, bribery, and soliciting campaign contributions from foreigners, were filed in September. Allegations claimed that Adams accepted luxury travel from Turkish officials and political contributions in exchange for actions benefiting Turkey. The case also accused Adams of pressuring the city’s Fire Department to approve a Turkish consular building without a fire inspection.
The indictment alleged that Adams manipulated the city’s public campaign finance program and received $100,000 worth of free travel to several countries. Adams pleaded not guilty, labeling the charges as "sensational" and "false." His defense lawyer, Alex Spiro, asserted that the travel on Turkish Airlines occurred during Adams' tenure as Brooklyn borough president, well before he became mayor, and denied any quid pro quo for official acts.
"I absolutely never traded my power as an elected official for personal benefit,” – Eric Adams
"It defies all logic, it defies common sense and it isn’t true," – Alex Spiro
Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove directed the acting U.S. attorney in New York, Danielle Sassoon, to dismiss the charges. Bove cited potential political motives behind the case, emphasizing that the timing of the charges threatened the integrity of the proceedings. Despite this decision, at least six prosecutors resigned rather than comply with the dismissal order. Danielle Sassoon expressed her discontent in a resignation letter.
"Because the law does not support a dismissal, and because I am confident that Adams has committed the crimes with which he is charged, I cannot agree to seek a dismissal driven by improper considerations." – Danielle Sassoon
The decision to drop the charges has stirred controversy within the Department of Justice. Chad Mizelle, the department's chief of staff, criticized the resigning prosecutors.
"Such individuals have no place at DOJ.” – Chad Mizelle
"The decision to dismiss the indictment of Eric Adams is yet another indication that this DOJ will return to its core function of prosecuting dangerous criminals, not pursuing politically motivated witch hunts," – Chad Mizelle
The case has drawn public attention not only for its political implications but also because it was the first criminal case against a sitting New York City mayor. It was perceived as potentially undermining President Donald Trump's efforts to crack down on illegal immigration. Critics argued that Adams allegedly interfered with immigration enforcement.
U.S. District Judge Dale Ho now faces the task of ruling on whether to accept the motion to dismiss the charges. Meanwhile, Emil Bove defended the decision to halt proceedings.
"The pending prosecution has unduly restricted Mayor Adams' ability to devote full attention and resources to… illegal immigration and violent crime." – Emil Bove
Mayor Adams maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal, reiterating his commitment to serving New York City without personal gain.
"As I said from the outset, I never broke the law and I never will. I never put any personal benefit above my solemn responsibility as your mayor," – Eric Adams
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