Eric Adams returns to court in New York in corruption case

New York Mayor Eric Adams returned to court Friday as he battles corruption charges that threaten both his political future and his administration.

During the hearing in the Manhattan federal courthouse, Adams’ legal team argued for the dismissal of a bribery charge out of five counts against him, arguing that the charges do not meet the necessary federal standards for a crime.

The indictment alleges that Adams accepted more than $100,000 in luxury travel benefits and illegal campaign contributions from a Turkish official and other foreigners who tried to influence him.

In return, prosecutors allege Adams provided political favors, including expediting the opening of a consulate building that had been deemed unsafe by fire inspectors.

Adams has pleaded not guilty and insists he will remain in office while he defends himself.

Before Friday’s hearing ended, U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho said the case will go to trial on April 21, 2025.

Did Adams receive a bribe or a tip?

U.S. District Judge Dale E. Ho gave each side 20 minutes to present their arguments regarding the bribery charge.

In a ruling late Thursday, Judge Ho denied Adams’ request for a hearing regarding his allegations that the government leaked information about the investigation to the press, stating that Adams and his lawyers had failed to adequately provide evidence to support these claims.

Adams’ legal team has characterized the bribery charge as “extremely vague,” arguing that the benefits he received were simply “classic gratuities” and should not fall under the bribery statute, especially since recently Supreme Court Sayings suggest that such gifts are permissible if they are given for past actions.

In contrast, federal prosecutors allege that Adams’s acceptance of benefits from a foreign diplomat was clearly criminal conduct.

False documentation

“The indictment must make it clear that there is nothing routine about a public official accepting more than $100,000 in benefits,” they stated, accusing Adams of concealing his actions by creating false documentation.

While Judge Ho is expected to consider arguments on the motion to dismiss the bribery charge, it remains uncertain when he will rule.

During an earlier hearing, prosecutors hinted that they might file additional charges against Adams and file charges staff linked to him.

Will his political career survive?

Several top Adams aides, including key figures such as the police commissioner and the schools chancellor, have resigned in the wake of coordinated searches conducted by federal investigators in early September.

Despite the legal turmoil, Adams has maintained he can effectively run the city while dealing with the charges.

Nevertheless, his political position is precarious as several challengers have already announced their intention to contest him in next year’s mayoral primaries.

This article contains additional reporting from The Associated Press.

Update 11/24/24 4:02 PM ET: This story has been updated with information about Adams’ trial date.