New York City Mayor Eric Adams Indicted on Federal Criminal Charges Amid Ongoing Investigations

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on federal criminal charges, according to a report by The New York Times on Wednesday night.

The specific charges remain unknown as the indictment is still sealed, marking the first time a sitting New York mayor has faced such legal action.

This indictment follows a series of federal investigations that have entangled Adams and his administration, leading to a complex web of subpoenas, raids, and unrest within City Hall.

In a statement provided to CBS New York, Mayor Adams addressed the indictment, stating, “I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers, I would become a target—and that’s exactly what has happened. If I am charged, I am innocent and will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”

Earlier this month, the FBI conducted raids on the residences of several high-ranking officials within Adams’ administration, including First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, Deputy Mayor Philip Banks, City Police Commissioner Edward A.

Caban, and Schools Chancellor David Banks. Authorities also confiscated electronic devices from Timothy Pearson, an advisor to the mayor, and issued numerous subpoenas to other administration members.

The investigations leading to these raids are not tied to a single case. Police Commissioner Caban resigned shortly after his devices were seized, as investigators looked into allegations that his twin brother, James Caban, had been exploiting his relationship with the commissioner for personal gain in his nightlife business ventures.

Other officials targeted in the raids are under investigation for a possible bribery scheme, potentially involving Terence Banks—a consultant and fundraiser for Adams, and the brother of Deputy Mayor Philip Banks and Schools Chancellor David Banks. On September 24, Chancellor David Banks announced his decision to step down from his role at the end of December.

September also saw the sudden departures of Adams’ top legal counsel, Lisa Zornberg, and Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan, further deepening the crisis within the administration.

Despite these challenges, Mayor Adams has downplayed the turmoil. Speaking to CBS New York earlier this month, he said, “As a former member of law enforcement, I’m very clear.

We follow the rules, cooperate fully, and turn over any necessary information. It would be inappropriate to interfere with the ongoing review.”

With the indictment now public, Adams faces mounting pressure from state and city lawmakers to resign.

Among those calling for his resignation are three state senators, two City Council members, one Assembly Member, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).

“I do not see how Mayor Adams can continue governing New York City,” Ocasio-Cortez wrote on Wednesday. “The flood of resignations and vacancies are threatening government function.

Nonstop investigations will make it impossible to recruit and retain a qualified administration. For the good of the city, he should resign.”

City Comptroller Brad Lander, who has announced his intention to run for mayor, also urged Adams to step down shortly after news of the indictment broke. “Mayor Adams, like all New Yorkers, deserves due process, the presumption of innocence, and his day in court,” Lander stated on X (formerly Twitter).

“However, defending himself against serious federal charges will require significant time and attention to govern this great city. The most appropriate path forward is for him to step down so that New York City can get the full focus its leadership demands.”

Should Adams choose to resign, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams would become the acting mayor, with a special election to be held to select his permanent replacement.