Eric Adams’ lawyer says there was no quid pro quo for Trump to drop indictment in exchange for NYC aiding ICE

US District Judge Dale Ho declined to immediately rule on the DOJ’s request to dismiss bribery and wire fraud charges against Adams. Ho cited “national security” concerns, including Adams’ role in implementing Trump’s immigration policies, as factors in his decision, according to the New York Post.

“It’s not in anyone’s interest for this to drag on, I understand that,” Ho said. “But to exercise my discretion properly, I’m not going to shoot from my hip on the bench.”

Adams, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges, denied making any secret agreements with the DOJ but expressed confidence that the case would not be revived.

“I have not committed a crime, and I don’t see them bringing it back. I’m not afraid of that,” Adams said in court.

The hearing followed a directive from Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, ordering the Manhattan US Attorney’s Office to drop the case. This decision led to the resignation of then-acting office head Danielle Sassoon in protest. The lead prosecutor in the case also resigned, calling the decision to leave the case open with the possibility of revival a “dismissal-with-leverage” tactic to pressure Adams into compliance.

The DOJ’s move to dismiss the charges has led to calls from Democrats for Adams to resign, with some urging New York Governor Kathy Hochul to remove him from office.