Politically Motivated Allegations Against NYC Mayor Probed

Former NYPD captain Eric Adams denies federal fraud, bribery and campaign finance charges, claiming they are "entirely false, based on lies" and retaliatory for his criticism of the White House.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has vehemently denied federal charges of fraud, bribery and campaign finance crimes, labeling them as "entirely false, based on lies" and retaliatory for his outspoken criticism of the White House's handling of the southern border crisis.

Defense attorney David Gelman, who has closely monitored the case, raises questions about the timing of the investigation, suggesting it may have begun as a form of political retaliation. Gelman points to Adams' 2021 critique of the Biden administration's border policy, coinciding with the FBI raid on the mayor's fundraiser Brianna Suggs.

Politically Motivated Allegations Against NYC Mayor Probed

Despite Adams' allegations of political persecution, federal prosecutors insist their investigation is based solely on merit and not influenced by political motivations. "We are not focused on the right or the left," stated U.S. Attorney Damian Williams. "We are focused on right and wrong."

Despite the denial of political motives, Gelman remains concerned about the severity of the accusations against Adams. "I am honestly surprised with Adams how sloppy he was and his underlings were," Gelman remarked. "If you're anybody who knows anything regarding police work and anything in the government, you would think that you would have a much better grasp on how to hide and conceal things."

Politically Motivated Allegations Against NYC Mayor Probed

Former federal prosecutor Anthony Capozzolo compares the allegations against Adams to the infamous corruption associated with Boss Tweed and Tammany Hall in the 19th century. "This case carries with it the fact that Adams appears to be willing to push aside safety concerns about the Turkish diplomatic building to get it opened for use in an expedited manner at the request of Turkish government officials," Capozzolo emphasized.

Adams has consistently condemned the investigation as a smear campaign designed to undermine his credibility. He has questioned the validity of leaks from the traditionally secretive Southern District of New York (SDNY) office and criticized the recent raids on members of his inner circle.

Politically Motivated Allegations Against NYC Mayor Probed

"Just this past week, they searched the home of our new police commissioner looking for documents from 20 years ago, just one week after he joined my administration," Adams stated. "Enough. I will fight these injustices with every ounce of my strength and my spirit."

On Thursday morning, the FBI seized Adams' cellphone after returning to Gracie Mansion, the city's mayoral residence. However, Adams has not yet been detained. If convicted of all charges, he faces up to 45 years in prison.

Politically Motivated Allegations Against NYC Mayor Probed

According to the indictment, federal investigators examined whether Adams' 2021 and 2025 mayoral campaigns collaborated with Turkish officials, business leaders, and other entities to acquire funds illegally. Court documents also reference alleged wrongdoings dating back to 2016.