NYC Mayor Eric Adams Declares Innocence in Bribery and Campaign Finance Scandal

NEW YORK — Mayor Eric Adams of New York City pleaded not guilty on Friday to federal bribery charges, adamantly denying accusations of accepting overseas trips and campaign donations to leverage his influence. The indictment claims that he received lavish gifts from Turkish officials, which included over $100,000 in flights and luxurious hotel accommodations.

Adams, who previously served as a police captain, expressed his innocence during an appearance in a bustling Manhattan courthouse just a short distance from City Hall. The first-term Democrat has faced mounting pressure and scrutiny, yet he maintained his commitment to serve, dismissing calls for his resignation.

“I am not guilty, your honor,” he stated solemnly before U.S. Magistrate Judge Katharine Parker.

Prosecutors unveiled the indictment detailing how Adams allegedly funneled illegal donations into his campaign, helping him access more than $10 million in public funding. Following his arraignment, he was released under stringent conditions, including a prohibition against contacting witnesses involved in the case.

Visual footage captured Adams leaving the courtroom, where he encountered a throng of reporters but opted not to comment. Supporters outside voiced their opinions, while his attorney, Alex Spiro, criticized the case as frivolous, labelling it the “airline upgrade corruption case.” He announced intentions to seek dismissal of the charges next week.

The investigation into Adams’ administration remains active. On the same day as Adams’ court appearance, one of his close advisers, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, was issued a subpoena at the airport upon returning from Japan, leading to the seizure of her electronics and documents by federal investigators.

“She will cooperate fully with any and all investigations,” noted her lawyer, asserting that she is not a target of any case.

Adams, now 64, faces multiple serious charges, including wire fraud and bribery. If found guilty of wire fraud, he could endure a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. The allegations suggest he accepted luxury accommodations and other perks from Turkish diplomats while serving as the Brooklyn borough president.

Moreover, the indictment alleges Adams collaborated to secure foreign campaign contributions, in direct violation of U.S. law, disguising these payments through intermediaries. In exchange, he purportedly helped favorable diplomatic outcomes, including bypassing a fire inspection for Turkey’s new diplomatic tower in Manhattan.

Spiro defended the former police captain, arguing that travel perks are common for officials, and reiterated that Adams never knowingly accepted illegal contributions. His legal troubles come amid broader investigations, with U.S. Attorney Damian Williams indicating that inquiries into Adams and his staff will persist.

The mayor’s legal troubles coincide with a political upheaval within his administration, marked by the unexpected resignations of key officials, intensifying calls for accountability. While several figures, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have called for Adams’ resignation, prominent Democrats, such as Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have opted to allow the legal process to unfold.

As investigations expand, Adams is slated to return to court next week for further proceedings. The legal landscape surrounding his office highlights the significant ramifications of these ongoing allegations, with potential implications for his political future.