New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted after a federal corruption investigation, it has been reported.
The indictment is sealed and it is unclear what charges Adams, a Democrat, will face, the New York Times and Associated Press reported, citing sources.
“I always knew that If I stood my ground for New Yorkers that I would be a target — and a target I became,” Adams said in a statement.
“If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”
The charges come after the FBI last November searched Adams’ electronic devices, and in the wake of a slew of resignations by top city officials in recent weeks as multiple federal corruption investigations entangle his administration.
Adams’ lawyer has said that the mayor was cooperating with an investigation but did not elaborate.
For much of the last year, Adams has faced growing legal peril, with multiple federal investigations into top advisers producing a drumbeat of subpoenas, searches and high-level departures that has thrust City Hall into crisis.
He had repeatedly said he wasn’t aware of any wrongdoing, dismissing speculation that he would face charges as “rumours and innuendo,” and vowing as recently as Wednesday afternoon to stay in office.
