NEW YORK (AP) — New York City Mayor Eric Adams pleaded not guilty Friday to federal bribery charges, firmly rejecting allegations that he accepted overseas travel, campaign cash and other perks from foreign interests seeking to harness his influence. Adams' lawyer told a judge that they would move next week to dismiss the case, which has roiled the biggest U.S.
city after months of investigations, searches and subpoenas. The first-term Democrat maintains he did nothing wrong and has vowed to stay in office, rebuffing growing calls for him to quit. Adams, a former police captain, entered the plea in a packed Manhattan courtroom that's just a short walk from City Hall and has sweeping views of the city.
His appearance, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Katharine Parker, came a day after prosecutors revealed an indictment accusing him of taking $100,000 in flights and stays in opulent hotel suites from people tied to Turkey, and fueling his run for mayor with illegal donations that helped him qualify for more than $10 million in public campaign funds.
“I am not guilty, your honor," Adams said, looking solemnly at the judge. Adams was released on the condition that he not contact any witnesses or people described in the indictment. Prosecutors said they would provide his lawyer with a list of names.
The mayor is allowed to speak with members of his family and staff — but not about anything pertaining to the allegations. Adams left the courtroom without commenting. He smiled at a.
