Eric Adams’ Attorney Urges DOJ to Drop Corruption Case
Requests for case reviews under new administrations are common, but no indications of dismissal have emerged.
An attorney representing New York Mayor Eric Adams has reached out to top Justice Department officials, urging them to drop the federal corruption case against him, according to sources familiar with the matter. Discussions regarding the request have taken place between DOJ leadership in Washington and prosecutors in New York, two individuals briefed on the situation told NBC News.
While it is not unusual for high-profile defendants to seek reconsideration of cases under a new presidential administration, there is no indication that federal prosecutors in Manhattan are inclined to dismiss the case, a person with knowledge of the proceedings stated.
A Justice Department official confirmed that the acting Deputy Attorney General, Emil Bove, has been involved in discussions with the Southern District of New York and Adams’ legal team regarding the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has declined to comment on the matter.
The New York Times first reported the discussions regarding Adams’ legal situation.
Corruption Allegations and Legal Battle
Adams, who was indicted in September on federal bribery and corruption charges, has pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors allege that, beginning in 2014 when Adams served as Brooklyn Borough President, he accepted over $100,000 in luxury travel, including plane tickets and high-end hotel accommodations, from affluent Turkish nationals and at least one foreign government official. The indictment includes five criminal counts, encompassing bribery, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and soliciting foreign contributions.
A recent court filing from federal prosecutors indicates that investigators have uncovered "additional criminal conduct" involving Adams and have identified other individuals potentially implicated in the case. The prosecution has suggested that further charges could be forthcoming. Adams, however, has denounced the investigation, insisting he has "done nothing wrong."
His trial is scheduled to begin in April.
Political Context and Trump’s Involvement
Days before Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration, Adams traveled to Palm Beach, Florida, for a meeting with the then-president-elect. Following the meeting, Adams stated that various issues were discussed but emphasized that his legal case was not among them. Subsequently, Adams attended Trump’s inauguration.
On December 16, Trump hinted at the possibility of issuing a pardon for Adams, commenting that "he was treated pretty unfairly." However, Trump also noted that he would need to review the case details before making a final decision.