Adams allegedly received $10 million in illegal donations

New York Mayor Eric Adams accepted $10 million in illegal campaign contributions and $123,000 in bribes, including free flights and other luxurious perks, from foreign nationals in exchange of favors, according to the indictment presented this Thursday by federal prosecutors in New York. He was indicted on five counts of bribery, fraud and soliciting illegal campaign donations abroad.

“In 2014, Eric Adams, the defendant, became Brooklyn borough president,” reads the beginning of the 57-page indictment. “Subsequently, for nearly a decade, Adams sought and accepted improper advantages, such as luxury international travel, including from wealthy foreign businessmen and at least one Turkish government official seeking to gain influence over him.

“As Adams’ prominence and power grew, his foreign benefactors sought to profit from their corrupt dealings with him, particularly when, in 2021, it became clear that Adams would become mayor of New York. Adams agreed, offering favorable treatment in exchange for the illicit benefits he received. »

The indictment notably accuses Adams of pressuring the New York Fire Department to get its officials to approve the opening of a new consulate tower for the Turkish government despite security concerns.

According to the indictment, the illegal contributions were made through nominees in collaboration with senior officials of theestablishment Turkish diplomacy. During this time, Adams accepted free or discounted flights for himself and his companions to far-flung destinations such as France, China, Sri Lanka, India, Hungary and Turkey. He also slept in luxury hotel suites in Türkiye for $600 a night compared to the usual price of $7,000.

“This was a multi-year scheme to curry favor with a single rising New York City politician: Eric Adams,” said Damian Williams, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, during a press conference. “Year after year he kept the public in the dark. »

Williams added that the investigation is continuing. “I encourage anyone with information to come forward before it is too late,” he said.

At his own press conference, Adams rejected calls for his resignation. “I ask New Yorkers to wait for our defense,” he said.

(Photo Getty Images)