The Trump administration’s decision to drop federal bribery and corruption charges was hailed by New York City Mayor Eric Adams as the conclusion of a “cruel episode.” “This has been the most difficult fifteen months of my life,” Adams said in a succinct, pre-planned social media speech, stressing that he never breached the law or used his position for personal benefit.
Charges should be dropped “without prejudice,” according to a Justice Department letter sent on February 10, 2025, which would allow the inquiry to continue at a later date. The note read, “The Justice Department has reached this conclusion without assessing the strength of the evidence or the legal theories on which the case is based.”
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Adams has maintained his innocence throughout the investigation, and his lawyers have accused U.S. attorneys of handling it improperly. According to the indictment, Adams used his positions to finance “illegal campaign contributions and luxury travel,” and he was charged with bribery, wire fraud, and soliciting and receiving a bribe.
The DOJ document, which suggested that the prosecution may have been punitive for Adams’ criticism of Biden’s immigration policy, listed political reasons for withdrawing the case. Additionally, it pointed out that pursuing the case would impede Adams’ attempts to reduce crime and enforce immigration laws.
New York City comptroller Brad Lander referred to the DOJ’s decision as “Adams’ effort to get a pardon for his pay-to-play charges,” while state senator Jessica Ramos said that “Eric Adams sold out New Yorkers to buy his own freedom.”
Adams said that the indictment had damaged his public image even after the charges were dismissed, and he promised, “I know I must continue to regain your trust.”
