Former NYC Official Arrested and Charged with Witness Tampering and Obstruction of Justice
A former New York City official, who until Monday worked in the Adams administration, has been arrested and charged with witness tampering and obstruction of justice, according to federal prosecutors.
Charges Stem from Campaign Donation Investigation
Prosecutors allege Mohamed Bahi, 40, organized fundraisers for Mayor Eric Adams’ 2021 campaign and accepted straw donations. Prosecutors say Bahi obstructed the federal investigation into those donations by deleting the encrypted messaging app Signal from his cellphone when FBI agents arrived at his house in July 2024 with a search warrant.
Witness Tampering and Destruction of Records Alleged
Bahi is accused of ordering “third parties” to lie to federal agents and did so after meeting with “OFFICIAL-1,” Adams, according to the complaint. He is also charged with destruction of records, with each offense punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
Adams Administrator Resigns Amid Allegations
Bahi resigned from his role as Senior Liaison in the Community Affairs Unit on Monday, reportedly without giving a reason. A City Hall spokesperson released a statement thanking Bahi for his service.
Mayor Adams Faces Separate Corruption Charges
Adams, a Democrat, faces conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery charges in a five-count indictment outlining a decade-long trail of corruption that began when he served as an elected official in Brooklyn and continued through his mayoral administration.
Adams has denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to stay in office. “I will fight these injustices with every ounce of my strength and my spirit,” he said in a statement, calling the charges against him “based on lies” and claiming he was targeted.
Court Appearance Scheduled
Bahi is expected to appear before a federal magistrate in Manhattan on Tuesday.
Conclusion
The alleged actions of Mohamed Bahi, a former NYC official, highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in government. The investigation into possible corruption and misuse of office continues, and it is essential that those involved cooperate fully and uphold the integrity of the criminal justice system.
FAQs
Q: What are Mohamed Bahi’s charges?
A: Bahi is charged with witness tampering and destruction of records, both of which are punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
Q: Who is Mayor Eric Adams’ alleged accomplice?
A: The complaint mentions “OFFICIAL-1,” identified as Mayor Eric Adams.
Q: Has Mayor Eric Adams been charged with corruption?
A: Yes, Mayor Eric Adams faces conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery charges in a separate investigation.
Q: Will Mayor Eric Adams remain in office?
A: Mayor Eric Adams has denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to stay in office, pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings against him.
