(GoRealNewsNow.com) – BREAKING NEWS: Following the historic indictment that accused him of corruption spanning over a decade, ultra-liberal Mayor Eric Adams turned himself into federal authorities today ahead of a court appearance in Manhattan.
Now the first sitting New York City mayor to be indicted, Adam was due in federal court at noon.
He faces charges of accepting bribes and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals in exchange for political favors. He plans to plead not guilty.
The five-count indictment claimed Adams received improper gifts from Turkish officials and businesspeople.
This included $123,000 in free hotel stays and discounted flights. He is also accused of fraudulently obtaining $10 million in public campaign funds.
In return, the indictment stated that Adams did favors, such as pushing city officials to overlook fire inspections and speeding up approvals for the Turkish Consulate in Manhattan,
Moreover, Adams’ surrender came after his lawyer, Alex Spiro, requested that the arraignment be delayed until Monday, aiming to minimize trips to the courthouse.
The mayor faces charges of conspiracy, wire fraud and bribery, all tied to an alleged scheme dating back to his time as Brooklyn borough president. Yet, he maintains his innocence.
At a news conference, Adams said he had no intention of stepping down.
“From here, my attorneys will take care of the case so I can take care of the city,” Adams told reporters outside Gracie Mansion.
“It’s an unfortunate day. And it’s a painful day. But inside all of that is a day when we will finally reveal why, for 10 months, I’ve gone through this. And I look forward to defending myself,” he added.
Earlier that day, Adams had also suggested he was being targeted by federal authorities because of his outspoken stance on the city’s migrant crisis.
His lawyer defended him, saying it was not unusual for public officials to accept certain travel perks.
He also pointed out that the perks Adams received, like upgrades and free flights, are typical for VIPs and members of Congress.
“That’s what airlines do,” Spiro told the press, emphasizing that many of the trips in question happened years ago when Adams was borough president.
Despite their strong stance, calls for Adams’ resignation have grown since the grand jury indictment became public. If convicted on all counts, Adams could face up to 45 years in prison.
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