New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted following a federal corruption investigation, marking the first time in history that a sitting mayor in the city has faced such charges. The indictment, according to sources cited by The New York Times, remains sealed, with further details expected to be revealed on September 26 when Adams is set to appear in court.
Adams has maintained his innocence, vowing to fight the charges. In a statement to The New York Post, he expressed confidence in his defense, stating, “If I am charged, I am innocent, and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”
The investigation reportedly began in November 2023, when the FBI searched Adams’ electronic devices in connection to alleged illegal donations from the Turkish government in 2021. The charges are believed to be related to these donations, though the exact nature of the accusations remains undisclosed.
Adams, a vocal supporter of cryptocurrency, made headlines in 2021 by accepting his first three paychecks in Bitcoin and Ether. He has consistently pushed to establish New York as a hub for the cryptocurrency industry, an ambition now clouded by his legal troubles.
The upcoming court appearance will provide more clarity on the charges Adams faces, but this indictment has already raised significant questions about his political future and his influence on the city’s crypto ambitions.