M
ayor Eric Adams has been charged with seeking and receiving illicit donations and luxury travel from Turkish officials and businesspeople, allegedly in exchange for favorable treatment by city agencies. A 57-page indictment alleges that Adams received illegal campaign contributions routed through individuals, triggering public matching funds to his mayoral campaign. Prosecutors claim Adams knowingly participated in the scheme, which dates back to his time as Brooklyn borough president.

    The indictment details a long trail of messages exchanged between Adams, his campaign fundraiser, and Turkish officials, including a senior diplomat who organized straw donations from a construction company. Adams allegedly received discounted or free travel, luxury hotel stays, and meals at high-end restaurants, worth tens of thousands of dollars. His girlfriend accompanied him on several trips, receiving the same benefits.

    The case centers around allegations that Adams helped benefactors secure construction approvals, including pressuring the fire commissioner to accelerate a key approval for a Turkish consular building. City Hall employees allegedly told another construction company executive that donating to Adams' campaign would gain influence over the mayor.

    Adams has denied any wrongdoing and maintained that his day-to-day activities will not change despite the charges. His attorneys will handle the case, allowing him to focus on governing the city. The indictment alleges that Adams failed to disclose the travel benefits and other perks he received to the Conflicts of Interest Board, as required by law.

    The charges carry a maximum prison sentence of 45 years, making Adams the first sitting mayor in modern New York City history to face criminal charges. The scandal has raised questions about the future of his signature housing plan, which is currently before the City Council.