As reported by the New York Daily News, New York Mayor Eric Adams has filed a motion to dismiss the bribery count against him in his federal corruption indictment.
Adams argues that the allegations lack specificity and do not prove that he committed any illegal actions.
His attorney, Alex Spiro, stated: “The bribery allegations against him lack evidence of Adams agreeing to perform any official act when he received a benefit.”
The charges stem from an investigation into allegations of foreign influence and illegal campaign contributions.
The indictment accuses Adams of assisting with the operations of a Turkish consulate in exchange for travel benefits while serving as Brooklyn Borough President.
Spiro said the indictment does not allege any specific actions that would meet the federal standard for bribery.
He further emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting Adams was aware of any threats faced by FDNY staff.
The indictment references communications between Mayor Adams and former FDNY Commissioner Daniel Nigro regarding the Turkish consulate in Manhattan.
Prosecutors claim that Adams pressured FDNY officials to fast-track the consulate’s opening despite safety concerns, but Spiro dismissed these claims, stating that no evidence exists to prove Adams knew about any threats to FDNY employees’ jobs.
Spiro asserted that the government’s case fails to demonstrate any direct actions Adams took in exchange for alleged benefits.
He stated: “The indictment contains no allegation that Adams was even aware of that threat, let alone that he himself threatened anyone.”
Adams pleaded not guilty to a five-count indictment that includes charges of wire fraud and bribery related to his 2021 mayoral campaign.
The charges allege that Adams accepted illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals, primarily from Turkey, in exchange for political favors.
Prosecutors claim that Adams engaged in a decade-long scheme to solicit contributions from foreign donors in exchange for influence and favorable treatment.
Adams’ defense argues that these charges rest on “false claims” from a disgruntled former aide, Rana Abbasova, who has cooperated with the investigation.
Spiro described the charges as meritless and stated that the defense would challenge them vigorously in court.
Mayor Adams continues to deny all charges against him and has refused calls for his resignation.
In comments made outside Gracie Mansion, Adams stated that he would continue to lead New York City as he fights the federal charges.
Governor Kathy Hochul, while expressing concern over the indictment, stopped short of calling for his resignation.
Hochul said: “My focus is on protecting the people of New York and ensuring stability in the city.”
Adams could face up to 45 years in prison if convicted of the charges, which also include wire fraud and campaign finance violations.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Adams has reiterated his commitment to remaining in office while contesting the charges.
New York Mayor Eric Adams has moved to dismiss federal bribery charges related to his alleged involvement with foreign nationals seeking political influence, specifically regarding pressure on FDNY officials to fast-track the opening of a Turkish consulate.
His attorney, Alex Spiro, argues that the allegations lack evidence and specificity.
Adams has pleaded not guilty to all counts, including bribery and wire fraud, and continues to serve as mayor despite calls for his resignation.
He faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted.
