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New York City Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Corruption Charges
On Friday, New York City Mayor Eric Adams made history by becoming the first sitting mayor to be indicted on criminal charges. He pleaded not guilty to accusations of bribery and corruption stemming from a decade-long scheme.
The indictment alleges that Adams accepted $100,000 worth of free plane tickets and luxury hotel stays from Turkish nationals and a government official in exchange for favors. Adams allegedly pressured the Fire Department to approve the opening of a Turkish consulate building despite safety concerns.
Adams’ lawyer dismissed the charges as "shaky" and vowed to fight. Adams himself remains defiant, stating that he will not resign and will await the outcome of the case before judgment is passed.
The indictment adds to a series of investigations into Adams’ administration. Investigators have searched the homes of top officials, including the former police commissioner, who has since resigned. The mayor faces a public corruption investigation and a federal probe into his director of Asian affairs.
Despite calls for his resignation from some politicians, powerful figures like Senator Chuck Schumer and Governor Kathy Hochul have not joined the chorus. Hochul has stated that she expects Adams to consider his position and find a "path forward."
The Turkish Embassy has not commented on the allegations, and Adams’ lawyer has downplayed the significance of the indictment. The mayor’s future remains uncertain as the investigations continue.