Trump’s Justice Dept. considering dropping NYC Mayor Adams’ charges: reports
Will DoJ dismiss charges against Mayor Eric Adams?
As New York City Mayor Eric Adams prepares to return to work, reports suggest his legal team is in talks with the DOJ to drop federal corruption charges. Accused of accepting illegal campaign contributions from the Turkish government, Adams has pleaded not guilty, while political analysts say his improving relationship with President Trump could influence the case. FOX 5's Sharon Crowley has the story.
NEW YORK CITY - President Donald Trump’s Justice Department is weighing whether to drop charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams in his bribery case, according to reports.
What we know:
The New York Times first reported that DOJ officials met with federal prosecutors in Manhattan to discuss the case against the Democratic mayor. According to the Times, Adams’ defense team is led by Alex Spiro, personal lawyer of a Trump confidant and the richest man in the world, Elon Musk.
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WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 20: Mayor of New York City Eric Adams arrives prior to the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump at the United States Capitol on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. Donald Trump takes office for his second term as the
What we don't know:
There is no indication that Manhattan prosecutors intend to drop Adams’ case.
The backstory:
Adams was indicted in September on charges that he accepted luxury travel perks and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals in exchange for political favors, including helping the Turkish officials resolve city approvals for a diplomatic building in Manhattan.
Adams meets with Trump
Before retaking the White House in mid-January, Trump met with Adams privately at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
Adams issued a statement afterward in which he stated the two "did not discuss my legal case" but instead focused on topics such as bringing manufacturing jobs back to the city and the Gaza ceasefire deal.
Trump has criticized the case against Adams and said he is open to giving the mayor, who had been a registered Republican in the 1990s, a pardon.
FOX 5 NY has not independently confirmed this report.