**A recent memo from the Justice Department has directed prosecutors to drop the corruption case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams, accused of receiving illegal campaign funds from Turkish businessmen. The case's dismissal aims to avoid interference in the upcoming mayoral election, while concerns surrounding Adams's ability to address key city issues were raised.**
**Justice Department Recommends Dropping Corruption Charges Against NYC Mayor Eric Adams**
**Justice Department Recommends Dropping Corruption Charges Against NYC Mayor Eric Adams**
**Federal prosecutors instructed to dismiss charges amid concerns over electoral impact**
The U.S. Justice Department has ordered a halt to the corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, as revealed in a memo from Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove. The directive, issued Monday, instructs federal prosecutors in the Southern District of New York to dismiss charges against the mayor, who has been accused of accepting unlawful campaign contributions and gifts from Turkish businessmen.
In the memo, Bove emphasized the potential repercussions of the indictment on the imminent mayoral election, suggesting it has "restricted" Adams' capabilities to tackle issues like illegal immigration and violent crime throughout the city. The mayor has previously pleaded not guilty to five counts related to bribery, conspiracy, and campaign finance violations.
The memo clearly states, "You are directed, as authorized by the Attorney General, to dismiss the pending charges." However, prosecutors have yet to confirm if they will act on the request, as such decisions require formal court submissions and approvals.
While the memo mentions a possible review of the case following the November 2025 mayoral election, it advises against further investigative actions until that time. Additionally, it instructs prosecutors to take measures necessary for the restoration of Adams’ security clearance.
Bove's involvement in the case is notable, considering his recent tenure as Trump’s defense attorney during last year’s criminal trial. He added that the Justice Department's conclusion was reached without evaluating the evidence's strength or the legal principles involved, stating that this in no way undermines the integrity of the original prosecutors.
This development follows discussions between Adams’ legal team and federal prosecutors. The mayor, a Democrat, has been attempting to strengthen his ties with Trump and the previous administration, exemplified by his attendance at Trump's recent inauguration and engagements with federal immigration authorities, a move critiqued for undermining the city’s sanctuary laws.
The memo also alludes to allegations that the Justice Department targeted Adams during Joe Biden's presidency, yet no supporting evidence was provided. Professor Stephen Gillers from NYU Law School criticized the memo as an "offensive slur" against those who worked on the case.
Adams' lawyer celebrated the Justice Department's decision as a triumph for the mayor. "From the outset, the mayor is innocent - and he would prevail. Today he has," stated Alex Spiro. Meanwhile, the Manhattan U.S. Attorney's office, which initially led the charge, has not issued a statement regarding the situation.
