Mayor Eric Adams Faces April Trial on Bribery

New York City Mayor Eric Adams is scheduled to stand trial on April 21 for federal corruption charges, including wire fraud, conspiracy, and bribery allegedly involving foreign campaign donations and political favors. Adams, who has pleaded not guilty, is accused of accepting luxury travel perks from foreign nationals in exchange for expediting the opening of a Turkish consulate in Manhattan. His legal team is seeking to dismiss the bribery charge, arguing it does not meet federal standards and lacks evidence of a quid pro quo. The defense claims that the perks were 'classic gratuities' not covered by the bribery statute. Federal prosecutors counter that the benefits Adams received were part of an illegal exchange to influence city regulations. A judge has denied Adams' request for a hearing on claims of investigative leaks, maintaining focus on the bribery charges for now.