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Mayor Adams arrives at court ahead of appearance on charges of accepting illegal contributions.

Mayor Eric Adams arrives in court this morning ahead of today's arraignment

On Thursday, federal prosecutors unsealed a 57-page indictment alleging he carried out illegal activity as far back as 2014 when serving as Brooklyn borough president.

Faith Graham

Sep 27, 2024, 12:14 PM

Updated 2 hr ago

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New York City’s Mayor Eric Adams arrived at court Friday morning ahead of an appearance on charges that he accepted illegal campaign contributions and free overseas trips from people looking to buy his influence in city government.
Adams did not speak as he headed into federal court in Manhattan. He was scheduled to appear at noon before Magistrate Judge Katharine Parker.
On Thursday, federal prosecutors unsealed a 57-page indictment alleging he carried out illegal activity as far back as 2014 when serving as Brooklyn borough president.
Prosecutors say he funded a lavish lifestyle full of first class flights and hotel upgrades, but the mayor maintains his innocence.
"And I ask to wait and hear our side to this narrative," said Adams on Thursday while surrounded by supporters outside of Gracie Mansion. "From here, my attorneys will take care of the case so I can take care of the city."
According to the indictment, the mayor accepted more than $100,000 in luxury travel benefits since 2016 from Turkish officials. In return, it's alleged they later pressured him to open a Turkish consular building without passing a fire inspection.
The indictment further alleges the mayor accepted illegal campaign contributions from foreign donors.
His attorney, however, shared text messages in which the mayor instructs a staffer, "We can't take any money from people who are not U.S. citizens."