Federal agents investigating New York City Mayor Eric Adams were actively pursuing the corruption case against him even as Justice Department leaders moved to drop the charges. Newly released court documents show that the investigation, which began in August 2021 while Adams was Brooklyn borough president, included efforts to gather evidence despite ongoing internal conflicts within the Justice Department.
Adams faced accusations of accepting improper campaign contributions, illegal travel, and influence-seeking gifts, including from a Turkish diplomat. The investigation became public in November 2023 when FBI agents seized Adams’ electronics during an event. The case took a dramatic turn in February 2024, after the new Justice Department leadership ordered prosecutors to cease the case, arguing it obstructed the mayor’s ability to aid in the Republican administration’s immigration enforcement.
This directive caused turmoil within federal prosecutors’ offices, prompting resignations, including that of top Manhattan prosecutor Danielle Sassoon, who indicated they were close to bringing additional charges against Adams for obstruction of justice. A judge ultimately dismissed the case at the request of Justice Department officials.
The unsealed documents also detail extensive investigative efforts, including warrants for searching electronic devices belonging to Adams and his partner, Tracey Collins, and physical locations linked to alleged campaign funding violations. Despite the conclusion of the criminal proceedings, Adams’ political future remains uncertain. He recently announced plans to skip the Democratic primary, opting instead to run as an independent in the general election. Adams maintains that the prosecution was unjust and sees its dismissal as a form of vindication, despite his ongoing connections with former President Trump.
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