Eric Adams Faces Allegations of Foreign Bribes and Fraud: What You Need to Know

Eric Adams Faces Allegations

Eric Adams Charged with Bribery and Fraud: What You Need to Know About the Allegations

US prosecutors have charged New York City Mayor Eric Adams with serious bribery and fraud offenses, alleging he was involved in a “long-running” scheme that has shaken the political landscape in the nation’s largest city.

According to the indictment, Adams is accused of accepting over $100,000 in illegal gifts from Turkish nationals, including government officials. In return, he allegedly provided favors, such as assistance in circumventing safety regulations for the opening of a consulate in New York.

Adams, a former police captain, has denied any wrongdoing and is determined to contest the charges in court.

The Charges Against Adams

Adams faces five criminal counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, federal program bribery, and soliciting contributions from foreign nationals. Specifically, he is charged with wire fraud and two counts of solicitation of contributions by foreign nationals, alongside bribery charges.

The indictment outlines that starting in 2016, when Adams served as Brooklyn's borough president, he accepted luxury travel benefits—such as a significantly discounted stay at Istanbul’s St Regis hotel worth approximately $7,000 for only $600.

US Attorney Damian Williams described the situation as a “multi-year scheme” aimed at currying favor with a rising political figure.

Allegations of Misconduct

Prosecutors assert that Adams sought campaign contributions from Turkish sources for his 2021 mayoral campaign without declaring them. They claim he used “straw donors” to obscure the origins of these funds, creating false documentation to suggest he was covering the costs himself.

One charge of wire fraud relates to claims that Adams misrepresented the nature of these funds to qualify for a public financing program that matches donations from city residents. Accepting contributions from non-U.S. citizens or foreign entities is strictly prohibited under this program.

Favor Exchange and Political Influence

In return for the lavish gifts and campaign contributions, Adams is alleged to have acted on behalf of Turkish officials. For example, in 2016, he reportedly distanced himself from a Turkish community center after a government official indicated that continued support depended on it.

In a 2021 incident, he allegedly pressured a fire department official to expedite the approval of a Turkish consulate building, circumventing necessary safety inspections under threat of job loss. Prosecutors state a Turkish official told Adams it was "his turn to repay" the support.

Potential Consequences

If convicted, Adams could face significant prison time. The wire fraud charge alone carries a maximum penalty of 20 years, while other charges could add additional years. The looming charges may jeopardize his political future as he approaches his re-election bid in 2025.

Calls for his resignation have come from various lawmakers, including notable figures like Democratic US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. However, Adams insists he will not step down and seeks an expedited trial, reaffirming his commitment to serve as mayor.

“I know I don’t take money from foreign donors,” he stated, vowing to clear his name in court.

Eric Adams Faces Allegations of Foreign Bribes and Fraud: What You Need to Know