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topicnews · September 26, 2024

What you should know about the New York mayor who was indicted in federal court – Hollywood Life

What you should know about the New York mayor who was indicted in federal court – Hollywood Life

Photo credit: AFP via Getty Images

Federal prosecutors file charges against New York mayor Eric AdamsThis is the first time in the city’s history that charges have been brought against a sitting mayor.

Details of the specific charges Adams faces are still unclear, but prosecutors are expected to outline them on Thursday, according to New York Times.

“I always knew that if I stood up for New Yorkers, I would be a target – and I have been,” the 64-year-old mayor said in a video message released late Wednesday, indicating that he would remain in office despite the allegations. “If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight it with all my strength and determination.”

He also acknowledged that the allegations could leave New Yorkers worried every day about his ability to perform his duties, stating, “I have been confronted with these lies for months.” The charges follow a federal investigation that included the seizure of Adams’ electronic devices and a search of his home. Brianna Suggsits most important fundraiser, less than a year ago.

Here’s everything you need to know about Mayor Adams.

Who is Eric Adams?

Born on September 1, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, Adams grew up in Brooklyn and Queens, where he was raised by a working-class mother and faced numerous challenges, including dyslexia and encounters with the police – topics he frequently addresses.

“People need to see, as I stand on this high-profile stage, that children with learning disabilities and other issues they are trying to overcome are going to be OK,” Adams said in 2022.

He attended New York City College of Technology and later earned a degree in criminal justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Adams joined the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in 1984 and rose through the ranks over the years. During his time with the department, he led two organizations representing black officers: the Guardians Association and 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care.

Adams then entered politics and won election to the New York State Senate, where he focused on public safety, education, and community engagement. In 2021, he ran for mayor and won, becoming the 110th mayor of New York City. His campaign focused on fighting crime, public safety, and social justice.

When did the investigation begin?

The investigation began in 2021 but remained secret until November 2023, when FBI agents raided the Brooklyn home of Adams’ top fundraiser, Suggs, in the early hours of the morning.

When the federal investigation into his administration became public, Adams insisted he had followed the law and said he would be “shocked” if anyone on his campaign team had acted illegally. “I can’t tell you how many times I start every day by telling my team that we have to follow the law,” he told reporters at the time. Days later, FBI agents seized the mayor’s phones and iPad as he left an event in Manhattan. That interaction was disclosed several days later by the mayor’s attorney.

Then, on September 4, federal investigators seized the electronic devices of the police chief, the schools chancellor, the deputy mayor for public safety, the first deputy mayor and other people close to Adams.

Why was the investigation initiated?

The investigation has focused on possible foreign donations and whether Mayor Adams pressured the fire department to approve the opening of a new high-rise consulate building for the Turkish government, among other things, despite security concerns. Investigators are also looking into whether Adams accepted expensive flights and upgrades from Turkish Airlines, which is partly owned by the Turkish government. In addition, they are seeking information about a Brooklyn construction company run by Turkish Americans and a small Washington, DC, university that has Turkish ties.

Adams has been investigated by the agency four times, including for ties to people convicted of crimes, such as Mike TysonHe was investigated for working as a police officer for Tyson as a security guard shortly after the boxer was released from prison in 1995 for a rape conviction.

Who would become mayor after Adams?

If Mayor Adams resigns or is unable to continue in office, the Public Advocate of New York City Jumaane Williams becomes acting mayor. A non-partisan special election will then be held to fill the position.

While Williams did not call for the mayor’s resignation, his office released a statement stressing that the charges were “incredibly serious.”

“As the facts come to light, the Public Advocate will have more to say to the people of New York City. For now, he is focused on how best to ensure that New Yorkers can regain trust, confidence and stability in city government,” the statement said.

But Williams recently told reporters he doubts the mayor is capable of leading the federal investigation and that he is prepared to take over if necessary. “That’s part of the job,” he said. “Is that something you want? No.”

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