Federal prosecutors on Friday formally requested a U.S. judge to dismiss bribery charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams after an order from the Justice Department under President Donald Trump. The move has triggered mass resignations within the Department, with several top officials stepping down in protest.
Mayor Adams was initially indicted in September 2024 for allegedly accepting luxury travel benefits and campaign contributions from foreign nationals in exchange for political favors. He has consistently denied the charges. The Justice Department justified dropping the case, arguing that it interferes with Adams’ ability to govern effectively, particularly on public safety and federal immigration matters.
The decision has led to turmoil within the Department, with Acting U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon resigning in protest, followed by other senior officials who accused the administration of political interference in the case. The development has intensified concerns over the politicization of the Justice Department under the Trump administration.
