The mayor of New York has been reportedly indicted as part of ongoing federal criminal investigations concerning his administration.
Eric Adams is anticipated to face formal charges later today; however, the specific charge or charges remain uncertain as the indictment is currently sealed.
Two individuals with knowledge of the situation verified the indictment to the AP news agency, corroborating a report by The New York Times.
Mr. Adams will become the inaugural mayor among the city’s 110 to face criminal charges during his tenure.
The indictment arises concurrently with the FBI’s examination of operations within the largest city in the United States, alongside a series of unforeseen exits among high-ranking officials.
At the beginning of this month, authorities confiscated devices from key figures within the Adams administration, indicating the presence of several distinct investigations.
The devices confiscated included those belonging to New York police commissioner Edward Caban, who subsequently resigned, along with those of his twin brother.
Authorities also confiscated devices from David Banks, the head of New York City’s public schools system, who declared on Tuesday his intention to retire by year-end.
The mayor’s primary legal counsel, Lisa Zornberg, who had represented him during press briefings, also stepped down this month, stating in a concise letter: “I can no longer effectively serve in my position.”
In November, the FBI conducted a seizure of Mr. Adams’ phones.
In a video statement released on Wednesday, he maintained his innocence.
“I was aware that by firmly advocating for all of you, I would inevitably become a target—and indeed, I have become one,” the mayor stated.
“For several months, there have been persistent leaks and rumours targeting my reputation, seemingly designed to diminish my credibility and portray me as culpable.”
Mr. Adams, aged 64, committed to remaining in his position and to “combat these injustices with every measure of my strength and spirit.”
A Democrat and former police captain was elected nearly three years ago, marking the appointment of New York’s second black mayor.
He dedicated 22 years to the city’s police force before transitioning into a political career, initially serving as a state senator and subsequently as the borough president of Brooklyn.
Throughout the past year, Mr. Adams has encountered increasing legal challenges, as enquiries into his senior advisors have resulted in numerous subpoenas, searches, and significant personnel changes.
Prosecutors issued subpoenas to the mayor, his campaign organisation, and City Hall during the summer to obtain data regarding his schedule, international travel, and possible links to the Turkish government.
Recently, multiple high-ranking members of the Democratic Party have urged Mr. Adams to resign.
The mayor has consistently stated that he was unaware of any misconduct and has previously characterised the speculation regarding potential charges as mere “rumours and innuendo.”.
The governor of New York, Kathy Hochul, possesses the authority to remove Mr. Adams; however, her office has yet to issue a statement regarding the indictment.