U.S. prosecutors charged New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Thursday with accepting illegal campaign contributions and luxury travel from Turkish nationals attempting to influence him, following a lengthy investigation that has thrown the city’s government into disarray.

The 57-page indictment outlines a scheme dating back to 2014, during which Adams allegedly received free stays at luxury hotels and fine dining experiences to support his 2021 mayoral campaign.

PHOTO | COURTESY  New York City Mayor Eric Adams

In return, prosecutors claim Adams pressured officials to bypass safety inspections and allow the opening of Turkey's new 36-story consulate.

Adams, facing five criminal charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, has denied any wrongdoing and vowed to fight the allegations while continuing his role as mayor. Some have called for his resignation, but Adams remains defiant.

PHOTO | COURTESY  New York City Mayor Eric Adams

Federal agents searched Adams' official residence at Gracie Mansion on Thursday, adding to the mounting pressure. This makes Adams, a former police captain, the first sitting New York City mayor to be criminally charged.

Prosecutors say Adams accepted luxury travel from Turkish airlines while serving as Brooklyn borough president. He funneled foreign campaign contributions through U.S. citizens to secure additional public financing for his 2021 campaign.

Allegedly, Adams accepted over $100,000 in travel expenses and worked to resolve permitting issues for a Turkish businessman.

PHOTO | COURTESY  New York City Mayor Eric Adams

The case could jeopardize Adams' potential re-election bid in 2025, with political opponents, including U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, already calling for his resignation.

Several high-profile resignations, including Police Commissioner Edward Caban and the city’s chief legal adviser, have been tied to the investigation.

As federal scrutiny intensifies, Public school chief David Banks is also set to retire.