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By SKNTimes/Times Caribbean | New York City, September 26, 2024

In a shocking turn of events, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has become the first sitting mayor in the city’s history to be criminally charged while in office. The federal indictment unsealed Thursday outlines five counts of bribery, wire fraud, and accepting illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals. Among the most explosive accusations is that Adams allegedly took bribes in exchange for political favors, including helping Turkish officials secure fire safety approvals for a new diplomatic building in Manhattan.

The 57-page indictment details a complex scheme in which Adams allegedly accepted improper contributions during his 2021 mayoral campaign. These bribes reportedly included gifts and payments from foreign nationals in violation of U.S. campaign finance laws. According to federal prosecutors, the illegal donations were funneled through various channels to mask their origin, implicating several key figures within Adams’ campaign team.

Bernie Kerik Speaks Out

Former NYPD Commissioner Bernie Kerik weighed in on the controversy, calling out what he sees as a double standard in the political landscape. “It’s outrageous that Eric Adams can be indicted on corruption. And Joe Biden, Jill Biden, James Biden, Hunter Biden—nobody in the White House has been indicted. I can promise you, they’ve done far more than Eric Adams,” said Kerik. His comments have fueled a political firestorm, as critics question the selective enforcement of campaign finance laws.

Kerik also referenced U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, who has faced scrutiny for allegedly accepting millions of dollars in unreported gifts, including lavish yacht and private jet trips. “If you can hold Eric Adams accountable for free travel gifts, surely Clarence Thomas should be indicted for the millions in unreported gifts he’s received. Where is THAT accountability?” Kerik demanded, intensifying the national debate on political corruption.

Federal Charges and Political Fallout

Aaron Katersky of ABC News highlighted the unprecedented nature of the indictment, noting that of the 110 men who have served as mayor of New York, none have faced criminal charges while in office—until now. Adams faces five federal counts, including bribery, wire fraud, and accepting foreign contributions, which could have wide-reaching implications for his political career and the city’s leadership.

Despite the gravity of the charges, Mayor Adams has maintained his innocence, asking for patience from the public. “I ask to wait and hear our side to this narrative,” Adams said in a brief statement. However, his indictment has sparked immediate calls for his resignation from critics and political opponents, while his supporters argue that he deserves a fair trial before judgment is passed.

A Dark Chapter for NYC Politics

The indictment marks a dark chapter in New York City’s political history. The allegations of bribery and corruption have not only rocked the Adams administration but also sent shockwaves through the city’s political elite. Many are now questioning the integrity of city leadership, as federal prosecutors prepare to lay out their case in what is expected to be a high-profile trial.

With the indictment looming large, the future of New York City’s leadership hangs in the balance. Political insiders speculate that this could trigger a larger investigation into other officials and campaign finance violations. For now, all eyes are on Mayor Eric Adams as he faces what could be the fight of his political life.