An aide to Mayor Eric Adams was charged with witness tampering and destruction of evidence in connection with a federal corruption case against Adams. The aide, Mohamed Bahi, allegedly helped facilitate an illegal donation scheme for Adams’ 2021 election campaign. Bahi resigned from his city position and was released on conditions after his arrest. The businessman involved in the scheme is cooperating with federal investigators. Other top officials and aides to Adams have also departed amid federal probes. Adams denied giving illegal instructions and downplayed the departures at a press briefing.
The federal prosecutor has filed charges against an aide to Mayor Eric Adams for witness tampering and destruction of evidence in relation to the corruption case against Adams. Mohamed Bahi, the senior liaison to the city’s Muslim community, is the first individual, aside from the mayor himself, to face federal charges in ongoing investigations into the Adams campaign and administration. The charges stem from allegations that Bahi was involved in a scheme to solicit and accept illegal donations for Adams’ 2021 election campaign in exchange for favors.
The complaint alleges that Bahi helped facilitate the scheme by assisting a businessman in funneling funds through fake donors to the campaign, enabling them to qualify for public campaign matching funds. Following a search warrant executed on the businessman, Bahi allegedly took steps to obstruct the investigation by discouraging cooperation from the businessman and donors, mentioning that he had spoken with Adams regarding the matter.
During meetings with the businessman and employees, Bahi reportedly questioned them about interactions with law enforcement, photographed grand jury subpoenas, and assured them that the FBI would not be able to prove they had been reimbursed in cash. Allegedly, Bahi also claimed to have met with Adams and conveyed Adams’ belief that the businessman would not cooperate with authorities. The complaint further states that Bahi and Adams communicated using the encrypted app Signal and that Bahi deleted the app from his phone during a search of his home.
Bahi resigned from his city position following his arrest and appeared before a federal judge. He was released under certain conditions, including surrendering his travel documents, staying in New York and New Jersey, and refraining from communicating with potential co-conspirators or witnesses. His lawyer declined to comment on Bahi’s cooperation with prosecutors or his sudden resignation.
The businessman implicated in the scheme, Tolib Mansurov, is reportedly cooperating with federal investigators. Adams’ lawyer did not respond to requests for comment, and the mayor distanced himself from the situation, stating he never instructed anyone to engage in illegal activities. Adams acknowledged Bahi’s work for New Yorkers but emphasized the importance of following the law.
Several other individuals associated with Adams, including other liaisons, advisors, and officials, have departed following federal investigations and the mayor’s indictment. Adams downplayed the departures, emphasizing the commitment of remaining city employees to serving New York.
The case underscores the ongoing scrutiny facing the Adams administration and highlights the consequences of alleged corruption within the political landscape. Stay informed about developments in this case and how it may impact the political landscape of New York City.
Source: TheCity.NYC
