Federal investigators have been conducting multiple inquiries involving New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, seizing devices from top officials, including the police commissioner, head of public schools, and other trusted confidantes. At least one high-ranking aide received a subpoena to testify before a grand jury. The investigations are said to involve senior Adams aides, their relatives, campaign fundraising, and possible influence peddling at the police and fire departments. Adams himself, a former police captain, has not been accused of any wrongdoing and denies any knowledge of criminal activity.
One of the investigations centers around a nightlife consulting business run by James Caban, the twin brother of former NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban. The FBI searched both brothers’ homes and seized devices. James Caban, a former cop who was fired from the NYPD in 2001, has been accused of wrongdoing, including claims of extortion by a mayoral aide. Subsequently, Caban resigned and the aide was fired from his position. Both James Caban and the aide deny any criminal activity. Another inquiry involves the Banks brothers, who were appointed to oversee the public schools and police department by Adams. Devices were seized from both brothers, along with the First Deputy Mayor. Their youngest brother, Terence Banks, also had his phone taken. Terence Banks runs a consulting firm representing companies seeking government contracts.
Tim Pearson, a close adviser to Mayor Adams, had his electronic devices seized by federal authorities recently. Pearson, who has faced lawsuits for sexual harassment and was involved in a brawl at a migrant shelter, is under scrutiny for his role in approving contracts for the city’s migrant shelters. Another aide, Molly Schaeffer, received a subpoena to testify before a grand jury. The investigations indicate a progressed stage where prosecutors are presenting evidence to the grand jury. Pearson and Schaeffer have not commented publicly on the searches or investigations.
The federal inquiries into Adams and his administration began last year with the search of a top fundraiser’s home and the seizure of Adams’ electronic devices. The FBI also searched the homes of individuals connected to the Turkish community in New York, seeking information about expedited Fire Department approval for a new diplomatic building. Adams has denied any wrongdoing and his attorneys have provided evidence undermining federal prosecution theories. Additionally, federal prosecutors are investigating Winnie Greco, the city’s director of Asian Affairs, and Frank Carone, the former chief of staff to Adams. Two fire chiefs were recently arrested on charges of soliciting bribes, while the interim police commissioner’s home was searched for classified documents from his time at the FBI.
In conclusion, the investigations involving Mayor Eric Adams and his administration have led to a series of raids, subpoenas, and resignations, raising questions about possible wrongdoing, influence peddling, and campaign fundraising. Adams has maintained his innocence and defended his advisers, many of whom have denied any criminal activity. The federal inquiries continue to expand, involving a wide range of city officials and influential figures, with the ultimate goal of uncovering any potential misconduct or corruption within the mayor’s administration. The outcome of these investigations remains uncertain, but the scrutiny on Adams and his administration is likely to intensify in the coming weeks.
