Eric Adams has been charged following a federal corruption investigation, a new report reveals.
The indictment remained secret Wednesday night, people familiar with the matter told The New York Times, because its contents are still unknown.
If the charges are made public, Adams will become the first New York mayor to face criminal charges while still in office.
The retired police chief has previously campaigned for a tough approach to crime and in a statement released shortly after the Times report was published, he remained unyielding.
The Times, meanwhile, was the first to report the existence of the indictment, confirmed by “people with knowledge of the matter.” The newspaper also said the federal government declined to comment.
Eric Adams has been charged following a federal corruption investigation, The New York Times reported Wednesday.
“I always knew that if I took a stand for New Yorkers, I would be a target — and a target I was,” he said. “If I am charged, I am innocent and I will fight this with all my might and spirit.”
The report came just days after several key allies of the mayor were targeted by federal authorities.
Earlier this month at 5 a.m., officers stormed the homes of First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks. in a series of raids that remain secret for now.
Both officials’ electronic devices have reportedly been seized, as was the case with Adams in November, when his phone and laptop were taken after a raid on the home of his campaign treasurer, Brianna Suggs, as part of an investigation into his campaign finances.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.