Overview
Federal prosecutors are in discussions with a former aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams regarding a potential plea deal. Mohamed Bahi, once a top liaison to the Muslim community for City Hall, was arrested last month. His arrest is part of a larger corruption investigation into Adams’ administration, which has led to charges against the mayor and raised questions about his campaign practices.
Plea Discussions Underway
Court documents revealed this week that federal prosecutors and Bahi’s legal team are negotiating a potential resolution to the case. The details of the proposed plea deal remain undisclosed, and it is unclear if the agreement would require Bahi to cooperate with investigators.
Charges Against Bahi
Bahi, 40, was arrested on charges of witness tampering and destroying evidence. Prosecutors allege he encouraged a Brooklyn construction company owner to falsely donate to Adams' campaign by reimbursing four employees for their contributions, allowing the campaign to secure public matching funds.
After FBI agents contacted the businessman involved, Bahi reportedly advised him to lie, claiming Adams expected the man to avoid cooperating with authorities. When agents searched Bahi’s home, he allegedly deleted an encrypted messaging app used to communicate with Adams.
Mayor Adams’ Legal Battle
Mayor Adams, who has denied any wrongdoing, pleaded not guilty to charges related to accepting bribes, including free overseas trips and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals. Despite facing an indictment on corruption charges, he has vowed to stay in office and fight the charges. Adams’ trial is set for April.
Resignations and Departures at City Hall
The investigation has led to notable resignations within Adams’ administration, including the police commissioner, the schools chancellor, and other key advisors. On Friday, Adams’ longtime girlfriend, Tracey Collins, retired from her senior advisory role at the Department of Education amid scrutiny over her participation in trips funded or subsidized by a Turkish diplomat seeking influence in New York.
Additional Investigations Likely
At a recent hearing, Assistant U.S. Attorney Hagan Scotten indicated that more charges could be forthcoming against Adams or others within his administration. The federal investigation is reportedly ongoing and may bring additional defendants into the case as prosecutors examine the mayor’s fundraising activities in greater detail.
Comments