Federal agents investigating New York City Mayor Eric Adams were active in their inquiry, seizing phones and applying for search warrants, even as the Justice Department instructed prosecutors to drop the corruption case against him. Newly unsealed court documents reveal that the federal investigation, initiated in August 2021 while Adams was still Brooklyn borough president, focused on suspected improper campaign contributions and potential influence peddling, including allegations of accepting illegal travel benefits from a Turkish diplomat.
The investigation gained public attention when FBI agents confiscated Adams’ electronic devices in November 2023, leading to charges against him for accepting unlawful campaign donations. However, on February 10, shortly after President Trump took office, the Justice Department ordered prosecutors to discontinue the case, claiming it impeded the mayor’s cooperation with the administration’s immigration initiatives. The directive caused turmoil within federal offices, prompting the resignation of multiple prosecutors, including the Manhattan federal prosecutor, Danielle Sassoon.
Despite the order to drop the case, investigators continued to pursue leads and were reportedly close to filing additional charges against Adams. The documents illustrate how investigators utilized search warrants and subpoenas to build their case, including warrants issued to search locations tied to Adams and associates.
In response to the allegations, Adams’ attorney criticized the initial charges as unwarranted and argued for the mayor’s vindication following their dismissal. Adams has maintained a positive relationship with Trump and met with the former president shortly after the dismissal to discuss various issues. With the charges lifted, Adams plans to run as an independent in the upcoming general election, bypassing the Democratic primary.
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