In a stunning decision, the U.S. Justice Department has ordered federal prosecutors to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, citing concerns that the case was interfering with the Trump administration’s priorities on illegal immigration and crime.
The directive, issued in a two-page memo by acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, instructed prosecutors in New York to immediately dismiss bribery charges against the Democratic mayor. Bove clarified that the decision was not based on the strength of the evidence but rather on the timing of the case, which he argued was distracting Adams from his role in aiding the administration’s law-and-order efforts.
“The pending prosecution has unduly restricted Mayor Adams’ ability to devote full attention and resources to illegal immigration and violent crime,” Bove wrote.
Political Ramifications and Backlash
The intervention marks an unprecedented move by the Justice Department, as high-ranking public officials—including President Trump himself during his first term—have historically been investigated without claims that their duties warranted halting legal proceedings.
Legal experts and political analysts immediately raised concerns, with some calling it a politically motivated decision. Several of Adams’ opponents in the upcoming Democratic mayoral primary accused him of aligning with Trump in exchange for leniency.
“Instead of standing up for New Yorkers, Adams is standing up for precisely one person,” said New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, a challenger in the mayoral race.
Zohran Mamdani, a state assemblymember also running for mayor, called for an investigation into whether Adams cut a deal with the Trump administration.
Despite the controversy, Adams’ attorney, Alex Spiro, framed the decision as a victory, stating that the case was “misguided” and that the mayor could now “put this behind him.”
Corruption Allegations and Federal Investigation
Adams was indicted in September on charges that he accepted illegal campaign contributions and lavish travel perks—including first-class flights, luxury hotels, and a visit to a bathhouse—while serving as Brooklyn Borough President.
The case also involved allegations that Adams:
- Accepted over $100,000 in free or discounted travel from foreign nationals seeking political influence.
- Pressured the NYC Fire Department to approve a 36-story Turkish diplomatic building in time for an official visit.
- Personally directed staff to solicit illegal foreign donations and disguise them to qualify for public campaign funds.
Prosecutors in New York had previously stated that the investigation was still uncovering additional criminal conduct as recently as January 6.
Trump’s Influence on the Case
Speculation had been mounting for months that Trump would intervene on Adams’ behalf. The former president had publicly sympathized with Adams, suggesting in October that the mayor was “persecuted by the DOJ” in retaliation for criticizing Biden’s immigration policies.
In December, Trump hinted that he might pardon Adams, stating that the mayor had been “treated unfairly”. Adams, once a critic of Trump, has shifted notably rightward since his indictment, expressing support for stricter immigration policies and distancing himself from Democratic leadership.
What Happens Next?
The memo does not rule out the possibility of refiling charges after the November mayoral election. However, it bars federal prosecutors from taking further investigative steps against Adams until then.
The order now falls to acting U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon, who assumed office after Trump’s inauguration. Trump has nominated Jay Clayton, former SEC chairman, to permanently lead the office, pending Senate confirmation.
Meanwhile, investigations into Adams’ inner circle remain active. Several top aides—including a former police commissioner, schools chancellor, and deputy mayors—had their phones seized as part of the probe. In December, Adams’ chief adviser, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, was indicted by the Manhattan DA on bribery charges related to real estate projects.
As Adams gears up for reelection, the decision to drop his charges is likely to remain a flashpoint in both New York City politics and the broader debate over the Trump administration’s influence on the Justice Department.
