Brooklyn Developer to Plead Guilty in Mayor Eric Adams' Corruption Case

Erden Arkan, accused of funneling illegal campaign contributions, becomes the first to admit guilt in the federal investigation involving New York City's mayor.

Erden Arkan, a Brooklyn real estate developer, plans to plead guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for organizing illegal campaign contributions to Mayor Eric Adams' 2021 campaign.
Prosecutors allege Arkan funneled straw donations on behalf of the Turkish government, which were then used to secure public matching funds for Adams' campaign.
The indictment accuses Adams of accepting bribes, luxury travel, and illegal donations in exchange for political favors, charges he has denied while pleading not guilty.
Arkan's plea marks a significant development in the ongoing federal investigation, with potential implications for Adams' upcoming trial in April 2025.
The case has added to political turmoil for Adams, whose administration has faced multiple corruption probes and high-profile resignations in recent months.