Federal prosecutors have made history by indicting New York City Mayor Eric Adams, marking a first for a sitting mayor in the city. The exact nature of the charges against him remains undisclosed, but they are expected to be outlined in detail on Thursday, according to reports. In a video statement released late Wednesday, the 64-year-old mayor addressed the situation, saying, “I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers, I would become a target – and a target I became.” He affirmed his intention to stay in office despite the legal challenges, claiming, “If I am charged, I am innocent, and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”
Adams acknowledged the concerns New Yorkers might have about his ability to govern amid the allegations, stating, “I have been facing these lies for months.” This indictment follows a federal investigation that had previously resulted in the seizure of his electronic devices and a search of the home of Brianna Suggs, his chief fundraiser, less than a year ago.
So, who exactly is Eric Adams? Born on September 1, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, Adams was raised by a working-class mother and faced numerous obstacles, including dyslexia and encounters with law enforcement. He often reflects on these experiences, aiming to inspire others with similar challenges. “People need to see, while I’m on this high-profile stage, that children with learning disabilities and other issues they’re trying to overcome will be all right,” he said in 2022.
Adams pursued his education at the New York City College of Technology and later graduated with a degree in criminal justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. His career with the New York City Police Department (NYPD) began in 1984, where he climbed the ranks and eventually led organizations advocating for Black officers, including the Guardians Association.
Transitioning to politics, Adams was elected to the New York State Senate, championing public safety, education, and community engagement. His 2021 mayoral campaign focused on reducing crime, enhancing public safety, and promoting social equity, ultimately leading to his election as the 110th mayor of New York City.
The investigation into Adams commenced in 2021 but remained under wraps until November 2023, when FBI agents executed a raid on the Brooklyn residence of Suggs. Following the emergence of federal inquiries into Adams’ administration, he remained steadfast, asserting that he abided by the law and expressing disbelief that anyone on his campaign had acted improperly. “I cannot tell you how much I start the day by telling my team we’ve got to follow the law,” he stated to reporters. Shortly after, FBI agents seized his mobile devices as he exited an event in Manhattan, a fact later disclosed by his attorney.
On September 4, federal investigators expanded their operation, confiscating devices from key figures in Adams’ administration, including the police commissioner and the schools chancellor.
The probe’s focus includes investigating potential foreign contributions and whether Adams pressed Fire Department officials to approve the construction of a new consulate for the Turkish government notwithstanding safety worries. Investigators are also examining whether he accepted extravagant flights and upgrades from Turkish Airlines, which has ties to the Turkish government. Additionally, scrutiny falls on a construction firm in Brooklyn operated by Turkish Americans and a small university in Washington, D.C., connected to Turkish interests.
Adams has a history of past investigations, having been scrutinized four times previously, including inquiries related to his connections with individuals with criminal backgrounds, such as boxer Mike Tyson, for whom he worked security shortly after Tyson’s release from prison for a prior conviction.
Should Adams resign or be unable to fulfill his duties, Jumaane Williams, New York City’s Public Advocate, would assume the role of acting mayor. While Williams has not called for Adams to step down, he issued a statement calling the indictment “incredibly serious.” He emphasized that his focus remains on helping New Yorkers regain trust and stability in city government. Although Williams expressed doubts about the mayor’s ability to manage the federal investigations, he remains prepared to step into the role if necessary, stating, “That’s part of the job. Is it something that you want to happen? No.”