Mayor Eric Adams was on the defensive during his weekly press conference following a bruising seven days of reporting on federal probes surrounding City Hall — while several members of his administration were conspicuously absent.
The Evidence of Absence
At his Tuesday media briefing, Adams had no administration lawyers present, following the abrupt departures of general counsel Lisa Zornberg last week and corporation counsel Sylvia Hinds-Radix in May.
Also absent was First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright, whose home — that she shares with Banks — was raided by federal authorities on Sept. 4. And chief advisor Ingrid Lewis-Martin has ostensibly been on vacation in Japan for more than a week.
Mounting Malfeasance
Meanwhile, reporting on his administration and those who’ve had their phones seized by the feds continues.
On Sunday, THE CITY reported that Adams senior advisor Tim Pearson — who is also federal investigation — delayed a migrant contract for months, blocking services to asylum seekers.
Then on Monday, THE CITY revealed that a security firm once owned by Phil Banks was able to get on a city list that makes it easier to get coveted municipal contracts.
Mayor’s Response
Adams on Tuesday did not answer questions on Banks’ role in the company, called Overwatch, and whether he could provide documentation showing he was no longer financially involved.
The mayor’s spokespeople did not respond to an email asking for any proof of his dissolution.
Conclusion
Despite the mounting pressure and scrutiny, Mayor Adams remains defiant, insisting that his administration will continue to deliver for the people of the city and that he will not be deterred by the ongoing investigations.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the federal probes surrounding City Hall?
A: The probes are investigating allegations of corruption and malfeasance within the Adams administration.
Q: Who is being targeted in the probes?
A: Several members of the Adams administration, including schools chancellor David Banks, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks, and senior advisor Tim Pearson, among others.
Q: What is the status of the investigations?
A: The investigations are ongoing, with multiple federal agencies involved and numerous search warrants and subpoenas issued.
Q: Will the investigations affect the mayor’s ability to do his job?
A: Mayor Adams insists that the investigations will not deter him from doing his job and that he will continue to deliver for the people of the city.
Q: What is the impact on the city’s administration?
A: The probes have led to the departure of several high-ranking officials, including general counsel Lisa Zornberg and corporation counsel Sylvia Hinds-Radix, and have created uncertainty and instability within the administration.
