Abdelrahman
New York City Mayor Eric Adams Faces Court Inquiry Amid Corruption Charges
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, seen here engaging with the press at the Sunnyside Community Services Older Adult Center on February 12, 2025, is under scrutiny following a federal judge’s ruling.
Michael M. Santiago | Getty Images
In a significant development, a federal judge has summoned Mayor Eric Adams, his legal representatives, and prosecutors from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to a court hearing on Wednesday. This follows the DOJ’s contentious bid to dismiss criminal corruption charges against the mayor.
Manhattan U.S. District Judge Dale Ho recently indicated that he may not approve the atypical motion to dismiss, which has raised eyebrows regarding a potential quid pro quo between the DOJ and Adams. Critics fear a possible arrangement may have been made, in which the DOJ would drop the case in exchange for Adams’ cooperation with President Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
Notably, on Friday, DOJ attorneys requested the dismissal after seven prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney, resigned rather than follow an order to support the motion.
Former acting U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon criticized the DOJ’s approach, highlighting ethical concerns due to the structure of the dismissal request. She suggested that the proceedings imply Adams faces future legal troubles if he fails to align with Trump’s directive for local officials to assist in enforcing immigration regulations.
This dismissal motion came just after White House border coordinator Tom Homan conferred with Adams, who consented to grant federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents access to Rikers Island, New York City’s extensive jail facility.
A court hearing has been scheduled for 2 p.m. on Wednesday to discuss the DOJ’s motion. Judge Ho has instructed involved parties to prepare for a detailed discussion on the government’s reasons for the request and the implications of Mayor Adams’ written consent.
In light of these developments, four of Adams’ deputy mayors resigned over the recent weekend. In a connected move, New York Governor Kathy Hochul plans to meet on Tuesday with key leaders to plot a potential way forward for the city, an engagement that reportedly will not include Adams.
Governor Hochul acknowledged the unprecedented nature of removing a duly elected mayor, emphasizing the gravity of such a step. She voiced her concerns regarding the troubling allegations that have emerged from City Hall in recent weeks, indicating a serious need for consideration of the mayor’s future.
Stay informed: This is a developing story, and updates will follow.
