WASHINGTON, DC — THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S JUSTICE DEPARTMENT may be dropping the corruption case against embattled New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the New York Times reported on Thursday, Jan. 30.
Senior Trump administration officials are believed to be in conversation with federal prosecutors in Manhattan to end the case against Adams, who last September was indicted on charges of bribery, fraud and soliciting illegal foreign campaign contributions. Adams, a Democrat, pleaded not guilty, and asserts that his prosecution stems from his criticism of the now-former Biden administration’s immigration policies.
Starting in 2022, Adams had to deal with a massive influx of immigrants and asylum-seekers from the southern border, some of whom were sent in from other states, most notably Texas. The dismissal of Adams’ case could aid President Trump, who has the power to pardon Adams and could thereby gain an ally in his deportation policy. It could also help Mr. Adams, who is seeking re-election as mayor.
It is not unusual for the Justice Department to discuss high-profile criminal cases with prosecutors in New York City, and even for defense teams to request that criminal cases for such persons be scaled back. However, the DOJ has only a slim crew of temporary officials and changing policies to deal with the caseload, the NY Times observed.
✰✰✰
