Eric Adams Pleads Not Guilty to Corruption Charges

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has pleaded not guilty to a five-count federal indictment, including charges of bribery, wire fraud, and illegal campaign contributions from Turkish officials. His lawyer, Alex Spiro, has filed a motion to dismiss one of the charges, arguing that the indictment relies on vague allegations and misinterprets ordinary constituent services as criminal acts. The charges stem from accusations that Adams accepted over $100,000 in travel perks and campaign donations in exchange for political favors, such as pushing the FDNY to approve the Turkish Consulate's safety inspection. Adams is the first sitting New York mayor to be criminally charged and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Despite growing calls for his resignation, including from Rep. Jerry Nadler and other officials, Adams has vowed to remain in office. Governor Kathy Hochul has stated she is reviewing her options but has not yet called for Adams to step down.