NYC Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Bribery, Fraud Charges

New York City Mayor Eric Adams pleaded not guilty Friday to five federal charges, including conspiracy, wire fraud, solicitation of foreign contributions, and bribery. The charges stem from an investigation into alleged campaign finance violations and illegal gifts from foreign entities.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams appeared in Manhattan federal court Friday to face charges of fraud, bribery, and corruption. Adams was indicted on a five-count indictment alleging illegal campaign contributions from foreign entities and falsifying records.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Bribery, Fraud Charges

The charges stem from an investigation into Adams' alleged solicitation of illegal donations from foreign entities and attempts to conceal the transactions. According to the indictment, Adams defrauded taxpayers for $10 million over the past decade and accepted free or discounted vacations from foreign benefactors.

During a video statement, Adams denied the allegations, calling them "entirely false, based on lies." He suggested that his criticism of the Biden administration's border policies made him a target for retaliation.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Bribery, Fraud Charges

Investigators denied Adams' claim that the case was politically motivated. They stated that evidence gathered during the investigation supported the charges.

Adams pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released on bail. He faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Bribery, Fraud Charges

The FBI seized Adams' phone before the charges were made public. He was not immediately taken into custody following the seizure.

The indictment alleges that Adams engaged in a conspiracy to receive foreign campaign contributions, committed wire fraud, and accepted bribes. He is also accused of soliciting and accepting a bribe.

In response to the indictment, Adams held a news briefing with supporters, who urged the public to allow due process. Hecklers interrupted the briefing with a megaphone.

The indictment includes details of alleged free or steeply discounted vacations Adams took to luxury destinations, including Turkey and Dubai. These trips were allegedly bankrolled by foreign entities.

The charges against Adams are a significant development in the investigation of alleged corruption within New York City government. The outcome of the case will have a major impact on Adams' political future and the reputation of the city's leadership.