NEW YORK, NY – The FBI is investigating the campaign of New York City Mayor Eric Adams concerning allegations that it illegally received donations from foreign entities, including the government of Turkey. The New York Times disclosed details of a search warrant indicating the probe’s extent.
Brianna Suggs, a prominent fundraiser for Mayor Adams and a lobbyist within city real estate circles, had her residence searched by the FBI on Thursday. The warrant, as reported by The Times, sought records pertaining to potential solicitation of foreign contributions – an act prohibited by federal election laws.
Vito Pitta, representing Adams’ campaign, confirmed that the mayor himself has not been implicated directly in the inquiry. Pitta assured full cooperation with the investigation, while maintaining that the campaign consistently adheres to high ethical standards.
The probe’s reach extends beyond Suggs to the campaign’s broader practices. KSK Construction Group and Bay Atlantic University, both with ties to Turkey and previous connections to Adams during his tenure as Brooklyn Borough President, are under scrutiny for their contributions to the 2021 campaign.
The federal investigation unfolds amid ongoing legal challenges related to Adams’ campaign, with several individuals already facing indictments for alleged illegal fundraising activities under the jurisdiction of New York County District Attorney Alvin Bragg.
Mayor Adams had planned a trip to Washington, D.C., which was canceled in light of these developments.
As the investigation continues, both Mayor Adams’ office and the FBI have not provided additional comments on the matter.