Authorities investigate organization founded by Rev. Alfred Cockfield II, reports say
A corruption investigation is currently underway by federal authorities, focusing on a New York City pastor and a political action committee he established to back Mayor Eric Adams’s initiatives. The probe is part of a broader series of corruption inquiries involving the mayor and his close associates, marking an unprecedented level of scrutiny around City Hall in recent New York City history. The investigation centers on the conduct of the pastor, Rev. Alfred Cockfield II, and the financial activities of his political action committee, Striving for a Better New York, as per sources familiar with the matter.
The exact scope of the investigation remains unclear, but federal prosecutors in Brooklyn and the F.B.I. are reportedly examining Mr. Cockfield’s actions and the finances of his committee. Recently, F.B.I. agents conducted a search at Mr. Cockfield’s residence in Far Rockaway, which he established three years ago to support Mayor Adams’s initiatives. Despite repeated attempts, Mr. Cockfield did not provide any comments on the investigation. Additionally, a spokesperson for Mr. Adams’s legal counsel declined to offer any statements.
It is noteworthy that Mr. Cockfield, who has a criminal history, was a member of the mayor’s transition team and even shared the stage with him during the victory celebration on election night. This is despite his previous guilty plea in 1998 for transporting three kilograms of cocaine for a drug syndicate known as the Poison Clan.
The ongoing scrutiny surrounding Mayor Adams and his associates is a significant development in the political landscape of New York City. The investigations highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in public office, as well as the consequences of past criminal involvement in current political activities.
Source: The NY Times
