The FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New York are conducting an investigation into New York City Mayor Eric Adams, as reported by The New York Times on Friday, concerning allegations of accepting free upgrades from Turkish Airlines during his numerous trips to Turkey, both personal and official.
This latest inquiry is part of a wider investigation into Adams’ fundraising activities during his 2021 mayoral campaign, a corruption probe that led to federal agents raiding Adams’ residence and several others in November. Additionally, FBI agents seized Adams’ phones and iPad as part of the investigation.
Eric Adams (Credits: Bloomberg.com)
The overarching probe revolves around whether the Turkish government funneled foreign funds into Adams’ mayoral campaign and if, in return, Adams exerted pressure on the New York City Fire Department to approve Turkey’s high-rise consulate despite safety concerns in 2021, according to The Times.
According to sources cited by The Times, Adams’ alleged acceptance of upgrades dates back to his tenure as Brooklyn’s borough president and continues into his time as mayor.
Responding to the allegations, Adams’ attorney, Brendan McGuire, stated, “As borough president, the mayor consistently disclosed his official travel to Turkey, did not receive any improper upgrades, and did nothing inappropriate in exchange for an upgrade. Speculation is not evidence. We look forward to a just and timely conclusion to this investigation.”
Mayor Eric Adams (Credits: NBC News)
Associates of Adams, including former airline executive Cenk Ocal, Rana Abbasova, and his chief fundraiser, Brianna Suggs, are also under investigation concerning the upgrades and broader corruption allegations.
These individuals also had their residences searched in November. Abbasova, who serves as Adams’ liaison to the Turkish community in New York City, played an essential role in fostering the relationship between Adams and Turkish Airlines, The Times reported.
According to the report, Ocal and Abbasova facilitated some of the upgrades on Adams’ behalf, although it remains unclear how many upgrades he accepted and their value.
