mayor ericed adams raided : In a dramatic escalation of federal scrutiny, the FBI conducted raids early Wednesday at the homes of two high-ranking officials within New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ administration. The targeted individuals include First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks III. The federal agents also subpoenaed cellphones from NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban and other senior police officials, intensifying the ongoing corruption investigation.
Details of the Raids
Federal agents arrived at the Hamilton Heights home of First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright and the Hollis, Queens residence of Deputy Mayor Philip Banks in the early hours of Wednesday. During these raids, electronic devices were seized, including cellphones from both officials. Wright shares her home with Schools Chancellor David Banks, who is Philip Banks’ brother, adding a layer of complexity to the investigation. Terence Banks, another sibling and independent consultant, was also reportedly probed.
Additionally, Timothy Pearson, a close advisor to Mayor Adams and a retired NYPD inspector, had his cellphone subpoenaed. The federal probe has also extended to the NYPD, with at least seven phones from department members, including Caban’s, being targeted.
Mayor Adams’ Response
Mayor Adams addressed the situation Thursday, expressing confidence in his administration’s adherence to legal standards. “I’m not aware of any wrongdoing or misgivings from anyone on my team,” Adams stated. “And we’re going to continue to cooperate.”
Adams emphasized his commitment to transparency and compliance, noting that his administration has consistently followed the rules and procedures. “The most important thing that I must do is to send the right message to my team and all the employees in the city,” he added.
Previous Investigations and Current Focus
The recent raids are part of a broader federal investigation into possible corruption and influence peddling within the Adams administration. This inquiry follows earlier searches at the homes of other associates, including Brianna Suggs, the mayor’s top campaign fundraiser, and key aides such as Rana Abbasova and Winnie Greco.
The FBI’s focus has also previously included the mayor’s 2021 campaign, with federal agents seizing Adams’ electronic devices and searching the home of his campaign treasurer. However, sources indicate that the current investigations are not related to the Turkish financing probe involving Adams’ campaign.
Federal Investigation Context
The ongoing federal investigation is led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. Despite the extensive nature of the probe, neither the mayor nor his staff has been officially named as targets, according to statements from City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications for Mayor Adams and his administration remain uncertain. The raids and subpoenas underscore a period of intense federal scrutiny, potentially reshaping the political landscape in New York City.
