Federal agents continued their investigation into New York City Mayor Eric Adams, seizing phones and applying for search warrants even as Justice Department leaders moved to drop the corruption case against him. Documents released show the investigation, which began in August 2021 while Adams was Brooklyn borough president, focused on improper campaign contributions and free travel he allegedly accepted to gain influence.
The inquiry became public in November 2023 when FBI agents seized Adams’ devices at an event. He was charged with accepting illegal campaign contributions, including from a Turkish diplomat, but in February 2024, after Donald Trump assumed the presidency, the Justice Department ordered the case be dropped. This directive led to significant turmoil within federal prosecutors’ offices in Manhattan and Washington, resulting in multiple resignations, including that of the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, Danielle Sassoon. A judge ultimately was compelled to dismiss the case based on the Justice Department’s request.
Prior to the dismissal, prosecutors were pursuing further charges against Adams for obstructing justice. Investigators had obtained warrants to search various locations and devices linked to the mayor and his associates as they built their case. Adams’ lawyers have criticized the prosecution, claiming it was unjustified. Following the case’s dismissal, Adams met with Trump, highlighting a potential rapport, although he asserts no deal was made for leniency.
Despite resolving the criminal charges, Adams’ political future remains uncertain. He plans to skip the Democratic primary and run as an independent in the upcoming general election.
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