Earlier this summer, Manhattan prosecutors charged six individuals for attempting to manipulate the fundraising program to channel funds to Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign.
Adams, however, has not been charged in connection with this case. The FBI’s involvement in the current investigation raises questions about potential connections between these incidents.
Adams news conference
In response to the investigation, Adams’ attorney disclosed that some, but not all, of the seized devices have been returned by the FBI. The mayor, known for his tough-on-crime stance, has been actively engaged in public events, including an autism awareness event at New York University, despite the ongoing scrutiny.
Adams’ absence from a planned trip to Puerto Rico for a political conference, widely attended by New York’s political players, has fueled speculation. At a news conference on Wednesday, Adams attributed his decision to New York’s “serious fiscal crisis” and dismissed the notion of indulging in a beach vacation during challenging times. Notably, he was scheduled to receive a humanitarian award at the conference, according to a promotional flyer.
