DOJ argues NYC prosecutor’s texts show Adams prosecution was politically motivated — but still won’t kill the case completely
SUMMARY
The Justice Department dropped a bombshell Friday, saying texts from a top NYC prosecutor hint that the corruption case against Mayor Eric Adams might’ve been politically driven. In a filing with Judge Dale Ho, Deputy AG Todd Blanche and Emil Bove pointed to messages from Hagan Scotten, a former lead prosecutor, who called it “plausible” that ex-US Attorney Damian Williams had “political ambitions” behind the indictment. Scotten, who quit last month rather than drop the case, hoped to distance his team from Williams without blowing up the scandal. Other prosecutors chimed in, one admitting the indictment took “a lot of gymnastics.” The DOJ wants the case dismissed but not dead—leaving room to recharge Adams later. This comes after Paul Clement, a court-appointed voice, pushed to kill it for good, citing political “taint.” Adams’ lawyers, Alex Spiro and William Burck, say the texts prove it’s “game over”—a “political hit job” exposed. The DOJ insists there’s no quid pro quo with Adams.
