Former Aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams Discusses Possible Plea Deal
A former aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams is discussing a possible plea deal with federal prosecutors following his arrest last month on charges of witness tampering and destroying evidence, court papers show.
Background on the Case
Mohamed Bahi, who served as City Hall’s chief liaison to the Muslim community, was arrested last month as part of a sweeping investigation into Adams and his campaign fundraising that led to the mayor’s indictment on corruption charges in September.
Charges Against Bahi
Bahi was charged two weeks later in a separate fundraising scheme. Prosecutors say he encouraged the owner of a Brooklyn construction company to reimburse four employees for their $2,000 donations to Adams, allowing the campaign to fraudulently obtain public matching funds.
Witness Tampering and Destroying Evidence
After FBI agents contacted the construction company’s owner this summer, Bahi advised the businessman to lie to investigators, telling him that Adams believed he would not cooperate with law enforcement. As agents arrived to search Bahi’s own home in July, they say he deleted an encrypted messaging app from his cellphone that he had used to communicate with Adams.
Prosecution and Defense
In a court filing made public this week, prosecutors said that conversations were underway with Bahi’s attorney “regarding a possible disposition of this case.” The filing did not elaborate on the nature of those discussions or whether a plea deal would require Bahi to cooperate with federal investigators.
Adams’ Plea
Adams pleaded not guilty to charges that he accepted bribes of free and discounted overseas vacations and illegal campaign contributions from foreign nationals, including a Turkish diplomat.
Consequences of the Investigation
The investigation has roiled City Hall in recent months, prompting resignations of the police commissioner, the schools chancellor and several top advisors to Adams.
Recent Development
On Friday, Adams’ longtime girlfriend, Tracey Collins, retired from her role as a senior advisor in the Department of Education. Prosecutors say she accompanied Adams on several trips abroad that were comped or heavily discounted by a Turkish official seeking to harness Adams’ influence.
Conclusion
The investigation into Mayor Eric Adams and his campaign fundraising continues, with potential consequences for those involved. The possibility of a plea deal for Mohamed Bahi and the ongoing investigation into Adams’ activities will be closely watched in the coming months.
FAQs
Q: What are the charges against Mohamed Bahi?
A: Bahi is charged with witness tampering and destroying evidence.
Q: What is the status of the investigation?
A: The investigation is ongoing, with several related investigations and potential additional defendants and charges.
Q: What is the timeline for the trial?
A: Adams’ trial is scheduled to begin in April.
Q: Has Mayor Eric Adams commented on the investigation?
A: Adams has denied any wrongdoing and has vowed to remain in office as he fights his own case.
