Federal prosecutors in New York served another round of grand jury subpoenas on Mayor Eric Adams as part of a corruption investigation that has lasted nearly a year, sources familiar with the investigation confirmed to ABC News.
The new batch of subpoenas, first reported by The New York Times, were issued last month and sought communications and documents, the sources told ABC News.
Adams confirmed receipt of the subpoenas during a taped interview with WABC anchor Bill Ritter for his “Up Close” program
“Like previous administrations that have gone through subpoenas, you participate and cooperate,” Adams said. “You see the subpoena, and you respond. At the end of the day, it will show there is no criminality here.”
Mayor Eric Adams speaks to the media at City Hall on July 30, 2024, in New York City. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)
Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images
The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Southern District of New York declined to comment.
Mayor Adams has repeatedly denied wrongdoing.
“As a former member of law enforcement, the mayor has been clear over that last nine months that he will cooperate with any investigation underway. Nothing has changed. He expects everyone to cooperate to swiftly bring this investigation to a close,” Fabien Levy, the deputy mayor for communications, said in a statement provided to ABC News.
As ABC News has previously reported, the investigation, at least in part, involves whether Adams and his campaign sought illegal donations from Turkey in exchange for pressuring the fire department to rush an inspection of the new Turkish consulate. Investigators also examined whether Adams received upgrades on Turkish Airlines flights.
Attorneys for Adams, Brendan McGuire and Boyd Johnson, said they have conducted their own investigation of the areas federal prosecutors are reviewing and have concluded the mayor did nothing wrong.
“Our investigation has included an evaluation of campaign documents, an analysis of tens of thousands of electronic communications, and witness interviews. To be clear, we have not identified any evidence of illegal conduct by the Mayor. To the contrary, we have identified extensive evidence undermining the reported theories of federal prosecution as to the Mayor, which we have voluntarily shared with the US Attorney. We continue to cooperate with the investigation and are in the process of responding to the recently issued subpoenas. We continue to look forward to a prompt and just resolution of this investigation,” McGuire and Johnson said in a statement provided to ABC News by their firm, WilmerHale.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams is facing further scrutiny as he received additional grand jury subpoenas in a corruption probe. The investigation, which has been ongoing for several months, is looking into allegations of misconduct and unethical behavior within the mayor’s administration.
The subpoenas come as a blow to Adams, who was elected as mayor in November 2021 on a platform of transparency and accountability. Since taking office, he has faced criticism for his handling of various issues, including the city’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising crime rates.
The corruption probe is focused on several key members of Adams’ administration, including his chief of staff and other top aides. The subpoenas are seeking information related to potential conflicts of interest, misuse of city funds, and other possible violations of the law.
Adams has denied any wrongdoing and has pledged to fully cooperate with the investigation. In a statement, he said, “I have nothing to hide and will continue to work tirelessly on behalf of the people of New York City.”
The mayor’s supporters have expressed confidence in his ability to weather the storm and continue leading the city effectively. However, critics argue that the corruption probe raises serious questions about Adams’ leadership and integrity.
The outcome of the investigation remains uncertain, but it is clear that the allegations of corruption have cast a shadow over Adams’ administration. As the probe continues, New Yorkers will be watching closely to see how the mayor responds and whether he can restore trust in his leadership.
