New York City Mayor Eric Adams arrived at a federal courthouse Friday morning for his arraignment on charges related to illegal campaign contributions and overseas trips he allegedly accepted in exchange for political favors.
The embattled mayor, who has been indicted, gave a thumbs-up as he entered the Manhattan court, flanked by his own police security but did not speak to reporters.
Adams is set to appear before Magistrate Judge Katharine Parker. An indictment unsealed Thursday accuses the Democrat of accepting improper gifts from Turkish officials and businesspeople, including free hotel accommodations and heavily discounted airline tickets to countries such as France, China, Sri Lanka, India, Hungary, Ghana, and Turkey.
Prosecutors allege that in return for these perks, Adams assisted his patrons by facilitating fire department approvals for a new diplomatic tower in Manhattan, despite existing concerns about its fire safety system.
Adams maintains his innocence, with his lawyer, Alex Spiro, arguing that it is common for government officials to accept travel benefits.
The mayor has denied knowingly accepting illegal campaign contributions, asserting that his assistance to those navigating city bureaucracy was simply part of his official duties.
Spiro had requested a delay in the arraignment until at least Monday, aiming to minimise the number of court appearances for Adams; however, the judge did not immediately respond to this request.
Adams faces a five-count indictment, including charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams stated that several businesspeople and a Turkish diplomat were involved in “a multiyear scheme to buy favor” from the mayor.
In public comments, Adams urged New Yorkers to withhold judgment until they have heard his defense.
Boluwatife Enome
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