In a historic development, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with a corruption investigation. The specific charges against him remain sealed, according to sources familiar with the case. This marks a first in New York City history, as Adams becomes the first sitting mayor to face indictment while in office.
Should Mayor Adams choose to resign, the city’s public advocate, Jumaane Williams, would assume his duties and organize a special election to fill the mayoral position.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York declined to comment on the matter. In a statement reflecting his determination, Adams expressed, “I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers, I would become a target—and a target I became.” He maintained his innocence, vowing to fight the charges vigorously.
In a recorded address from his official residence, Adams acknowledged that some residents may question his capacity to govern while facing these allegations. Nonetheless, he pledged to continue leading the city, stating, “Make no mistake. You elected me to lead this city and lead it I will.”
Governor Kathy Hochul has the authority to remove Adams from his position. A spokesperson for the governor indicated that Hochul is aware of the troubling reports and is closely monitoring the situation, but deemed it premature to comment further until law enforcement confirms the details.
The investigation into Adams, a former police officer turned politician, has loomed over him and his inner circle for nearly a year. Recent federal inquiries have led to the seizure of his cell phones and searches of residences belonging to several close associates.
Just weeks ago, Adams accepted the resignation of his handpicked police commissioner, Edward Caban, after authorities issued a subpoena for Caban’s devices. Additionally, Lisa Zornberg, the mayor’s chief counsel, has stepped down, and schools chancellor David Banks announced plans to retire at the end of the year, having also surrendered his phone to federal investigators. Both of Banks’s brothers—Philip, the deputy mayor for public safety, and Terence—had their phones seized, along with the phone of Banks’s fiancée, Sheena Wright, who serves as the first deputy mayor.
Adams, who has consistently claimed to follow the rules as a former police officer, has denied any knowledge of wrongdoing within his administration. He has previously dismissed speculation about potential charges as mere “rumors and innuendo.”
As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering about the implications for the city and its leadership amid this unprecedented legal challenge.
