FBI Agents Raid NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ Residence, Seize Phone Amid Indictment Speculation
The federal investigation, which has intensified amid public corruption charges, underscores the gravity of the situation.
FBI Seizes Mayor’s Phone at Gracie Mansion
FBI agents entered the official residence of New York City Mayor Eric Adams early Thursday morning, seizing his phone just hours before an indictment detailing criminal charges against the mayor was expected to be made public.
Adams has been indicted by a grand jury on federal criminal charges, which remain sealed for now, according to individuals familiar with the matter who spoke anonymously. The charges mark a significant escalation in a long-running investigation into the mayor’s inner circle.
“Federal agents appeared this morning at Gracie Mansion to create a spectacle (again) and take Mayor Adams’ phone (again),” Adams’ lawyer, Alex Spiro, said in a statement. He emphasized that Adams had not been arrested and that they would have voluntarily handed over the phone without the need for dramatic law enforcement action.
Multiple federal vehicles bearing official law enforcement placards were seen parked outside the mayor’s Manhattan residence during the early morning raid, sparking widespread speculation about the timing and seriousness of the federal charges.
Federal Prosecutors Remain Tight-Lipped
While the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Manhattan has not commented on the specific investigation, it announced plans for an 11:30 a.m. news conference to reveal “significant public corruption charges.” Neither the FBI nor Adams’ office has provided further details.
Adams Vows to Fight Back
In a video address released Wednesday evening, Adams condemned the allegations against him as a “targeted” attack, labeling the case “based on lies.” He promised to fight back with all his might.
“I will fight these injustices with every ounce of my strength and spirit,” Adams said in the video, which he shared widely on social media.
Unknown Criminal Violations
Though details of the indictment remain sealed, the investigation has focused on a wide-ranging inquiry involving senior aides, campaign fundraising, and possible influence peddling within city agencies, including the police and fire departments. Speculation has also mounted over his connections with foreign entities, including Turkish officials.
New York Governor Monitoring the Situation
Governor Kathy Hochul, who has the power to remove Adams from office, acknowledged the seriousness of the news but refrained from making any immediate decisions. “Governor Hochul is aware of these concerning reports and is monitoring the situation closely,” said Avi Small, a spokesperson for the governor. “It would be premature to comment further until law enforcement confirms the details.”
Federal Raids Spark Further Resignations
This indictment adds to a chaotic few weeks in New York City’s leadership. Federal investigators have ramped up their investigation into Adams’ closest advisors, prompting a wave of resignations. In recent weeks, the city’s police commissioner and head of the school system have resigned amid intensifying federal scrutiny, leaving the public concerned and engaged.
Federal investigators have reportedly seized devices from Adams’ police commissioner, two deputy mayors, and several high-level aides. All have denied any wrongdoing in connection with the investigation.
The Future of the Adams Administration
The nature of the federal charges remains a mystery, but they are expected to shed light on long-standing concerns about Adams’ interactions with foreign governments and possible campaign finance violations. As New York City waits for more details, the mayor’s fate—and his administration—hangs in the balance.