In a statement, Mayor Eric Adams, who is facing federal Indictment, implies his complaints about immigration made him a target.
The details of the charges against Adams remained under seal as of the latest reports, but sources close to the matter suggest they are connected to an investigation into his 2021 mayoral campaign, particularly involving allegations of illegal campaign donations from the Turkish government.
Update: Read the full indictment HERE
Prominent figures like U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have called for Adams's resignation, citing not only the indictment but also the broader federal investigations into his administration. This has led to significant personnel changes, with high-profile resignations, including the police commissioner.
Mayor Adams, known for his law-and-order approach and background as a former police captain, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. In a video statement, he described the charges if brought are entirely false and pledged not to resign, asserting his right to due process.
My fellow New Yorkers, it is now my belief that the federal government intends to charge me with crimes. If so, these charges will be entirely false based on lies, but they would not be surprised. I always knew that if I stood my ground for all of you that I would be a target and a target I became. For months, leaks and rumors have been aimed at me in an attempt to undermine my credibility and paint me as guilty. Just this past week, they searched the home of our new police commissioner looking for documents from 20 years ago, just 1 week after he joined my administration.
Enough. I will fight these injustices with every ounce of my strength and my spirit. If I'm charged, I know I am innocent. I will request an immediate trial so the New Yorkers can hear the truth. New Yorkers know my story.
They know where I come from. I have been fighting injustice my entire life. That fight has continued as your mayor. Despite our pleas, when the federal government did nothing as it's broken immigration policies, overloaded our shelter system with no relief, I put the people of New York before party and politics. Now if I am charged, many may say I should resign because I cannot manage the city while fighting the case.
I can also understand, everyday New Yorkers will be concerned that I cannot do my job while I face accusation. But I have been facing these lies for months since I began to speak out for all of you and their investigation started, yet the city has continued to improve. Make no mistake, you elected me to lead this city and lead it, I will. I humbly ask for your prayers and your patience as we see this through. God bless you, and God bless the city of New York. Thank you.
The indictment is expected to be unsealed Thursday 9/26/2024.
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