"Bombshell News: NYC Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Five Counts—Bribery and Wire Fraud Shocker!"

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New York City; Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on five federal charges related to bribery, wire fraud, conspiracy, and soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals, according to a 57-page indictment unsealed Thursday. The allegations date back to 2014, when Adams served as Brooklyn Borough President.

The indictment claims that Adams sought and accepted improper benefits, including luxury international travel from wealthy foreign businesspeople and at least one Turkish government official aiming to gain influence over him. Specifically, it states that he received lavish travel perks from a Turkish official and, in return, pressured the NYC Fire Department to approve the opening of a Turkish consulate without a fire inspection.

U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, remarked that Adams "engaged in a long-running conspiracy," stating that he knowingly accepted illegal contributions intended to buy influence from foreign officials.

Adams is set to make his first court appearance at noon on Friday. In response to the charges, he expressed no surprise and urged the public to "wait to hear our defense before making any judgments," insisting that he would continue his daily responsibilities as mayor. “I look forward to defending myself and the people of this city,” he stated.

Adams’ attorney defended him, asserting that the mayor had instructed his staff not to accept foreign donations. Alex Spiro emphasized that the alleged travel expenses date back to 2017, well before Adams took office, claiming there was nothing illegal about it.

In an email to city employees, Adams maintained his innocence and encouraged them to remain focused on their work. “I know I’ve done nothing wrong. I am committed to continuing to fight on behalf of New Yorkers as your mayor,” he wrote.

This indictment marks a significant shift for the mayor of America’s largest city and raises serious concerns about his political future, especially with the next mayoral election approaching. Adams, a former NYPD captain who took office in January 2022, has positioned himself as a reformer but has faced challenges addressing issues like the migrant crisis and subway safety.

Several prominent figures, including Democratic U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have called for his resignation. If he steps down, the city’s public advocate, Jumaane Williams, would temporarily assume the role until a special election.

Governor Kathy Hochul stated that Adams should take time to assess the situation but did not explicitly call for his resignation. She expressed that this indictment contributes to a growing sense of unease among New Yorkers.

While Hochul has the legal authority to remove him from office, sources indicate she is not currently considering such action. Alternatively, the city charter allows for an “inability committee” to assess Adams’ fitness for office, which would include various city officials.

New York Attorney General Letitia James described the allegations as "serious and troubling," emphasizing the importance of public servants maintaining the highest ethical standards.

The indictment alleges that Adams accepted illegal campaign contributions as he prepared for his mayoral run in 2021, with businesses reportedly circumventing city laws on corporate donations by funneling contributions through employees. A Turkish official is said to have facilitated these contributions and provided free travel on Turkey’s national airline, along with lavish accommodations and meals during visits to Turkey.

The indictment also alleges that Adams failed to disclose these travel benefits as required. In September 2021, after receiving these benefits, Adams was allegedly pressured by the Turkish official to assist in opening a consulate without a fire inspection.

Federal investigators executed a search warrant at Gracie Mansion, the mayor's official residence, shortly after the indictment was announced. Adams was reportedly not formally informed of the indictment at that time.

While the investigation into Adams has intensified, with searches conducted at the homes of key staff members, he has expressed eagerness to clear his name in court.