Federal agents raid homes in corruption investigation surrounding NYC Mayor’s 2021 Campaign

In a developing federal corruption investigation surrounding the 2021 campaign of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed search warrants on the homes of key individuals connected to the mayor’s campaign. The raids occurred on November 2, as FBI agents descended on multiple locations in a coordinated effort.

One of the homes searched belonged to Rana Abbasova, a resident of New Jersey and a member of Mayor Adams’ campaign team. Abbasova had previously faced scrutiny following an internal City Hall review conducted in the aftermath of another raid on the home of Brianna Suggs, Mayor Adams’ top campaign fundraiser. City officials confirmed that Abbasova had been placed on leave, although the exact nature of her alleged improper behavior remains undisclosed.

It is essential to note that Mayor Eric Adams has not been accused of any wrongdoing in connection with this investigation, emphasizing his position of innocence.

Furthermore, the FBI also searched the Brooklyn home of Cenk Öcal, who served as a member of Mayor Adams’ transition team. Öcal had formerly worked as an executive at Turkish Airlines in the company’s New York Office until his termination last year.

The focus of the FBI’s investigation revolves around potential collusion between Mayor Adams’ campaign team and the Turkish government, with suspicions of foreign donations possibly being funneled into the campaign. Additionally, authorities are examining whether Mayor Adams exerted influence on the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) to expedite permits for a new high-rise Turkish consulate, despite the building having previously failed a safety inspection.

Rana Abbasova, Cenk Öcal, and Brianna Suggs have not faced any charges of wrongdoing thus far. The FBI’s efforts to uncover evidence continue, with no confirmation regarding the outcome of the searches conducted at their residences.

As part of their investigation, federal agents have also confiscated two of Mayor Adams’ cell phones and an iPad. Mayor Adams recently acknowledged his involvement in facilitating the Turkish consulate’s approval process but maintained that his actions were within the bounds of standard procedure.

This ongoing probe has raised questions about the integrity of the 2021 mayoral campaign and the potential influence of foreign entities. As the investigation unfolds, residents of Wilmington, DE, and beyond will be closely following developments to understand the implications for the Mayor and his associates.