Jury Examining Evidence in Criminal Corruption Investigation Involving NYC Mayor. A federal grand jury is investigating New York City Mayor Eric Adams for alleged corruption involving illegal campaign contributions from the Turkish government. The probe, led by the Southern District of New York, focuses on potential quid pro quo arrangements between Adams and Turkish officials. Adams has close ties to Turkey and received free upgrades on Turkish Airlines flights.
Last fall, federal authorities raided homes of Adams’ associates and seized his phones and iPad. The investigation also examines Adams’ alleged intervention in a fire safety dispute involving a new Turkish consulate in Manhattan, which paved the way for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to preside over the building’s grand opening despite serious safety concerns.
Adams claims he has “no idea” about the investigation, directing questions to his counsel. However, sources close to the matter indicate that the grand jury is actively reviewing evidence and testimony related to the case. This development suggests a deepening criminal probe into Adams’ activities, potentially imperiling his mayoral tenure.
“In the past three weeks at least one person connected to the mayor has received a federal subpoena from the Manhattan U.S. attorney’s office with specific instructions prohibiting the recipient from speaking publicly about its contents,” The New York Daily News reported, according to a source.”
The investigation has already led to subpoenas for several individuals connected to Adams’ campaign and administration. The subpoenas instruct recipients not to disclose any information about the investigation publicly, indicating the sensitivity of the matter.
Adams’ relationship with Turkey has long been a subject of scrutiny. He has traveled to Turkey multiple times and has been photographed with Turkish officials, including Erdogan. In 2021, Adams reportedly contacted then-Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro to push for approval of the Turkish consulate’s occupancy despite fire safety concerns.
The New York Times reported that Adams’ intervention led to the grand opening of the consulate, which was attended by Erdogan. The building, valued at $300 million, is Turkey’s most expensive foreign mission project. Fire officials had expressed concerns about the building’s fire safety system, but Adams’ alleged intervention overrode these objections.
The criminal investigation into Adams’ activities has sparked concerns about corruption and abuse of power in New York City’s government. If Adams is found to have engaged in illegal activities, it could lead to his removal from office and damage the public’s trust in government.
As the grand jury continues to review evidence, the city waits with bated breath for the outcome of the investigation. Adams’ claims of ignorance about the matter are unlikely to quell the growing scrutiny surrounding his actions. The people of New York City deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders, and this investigation may be the catalyst for much-needed change.
The federal grand jury investigation into Mayor Eric Adams’ alleged corruption and ties to the Turkish government is a serious matter that warrants close attention. As the probe unfolds, it is essential to prioritize transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. The people of New York City deserve nothing less.
