Brooklyn real estate magnate Erden Arkan is set to plead guilty to conspiracy charges in a federal case involving illegal campaign contributions to New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Prosecutors revealed Monday that Arkan would admit to participating in a scheme that allegedly funneled illicit donations through straw donors to support Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign.
Arkan, co-owner of the construction firm KSK, is accused of conspiring with a Turkish government official to execute the scheme. The funds allowed Adams to fraudulently obtain public matching funds through the city’s campaign finance program. Arkan’s guilty plea will mark a significant development in the corruption investigation, making him the first individual to admit guilt publicly.
Details of the Allegations
According to court filings, the scheme unfolded in the months leading up to Adams’ election. Prosecutors allege that in April 2021, Adams attended a dinner organized by a Turkish official where he solicited donations from Arkan. Shortly thereafter, Arkan hosted a fundraiser at KSK’s headquarters. Employees of the firm contributed between $1,200 and $1,500, but these donations were reimbursed by KSK, rendering them illegal under campaign finance laws.
Arkan initially denied reimbursing his employees but later admitted to his role in the scheme. In discussions with others in New York’s Turkish community, he reportedly expressed reservations about the legality of the fundraising tactics but described them as a necessary evil of the political system.
Mayor Adams Maintains Innocence
Mayor Adams has denied any involvement in or knowledge of the illegal contributions. His attorney, Alex Spiro, stated that Arkan’s plea “will have no bearing on the mayor’s case whatsoever.” Spiro emphasized that Arkan had consistently asserted Adams was unaware of his actions.
Despite the indictment accusing Adams of accepting bribes and other benefits, the mayor has pleaded not guilty and has vowed to remain in office while contesting the charges. Adams described the accusations as baseless and pledged to fight them with determination.
A Cloud Over Adams’ Administration
The case against Adams is one of several scandals that have plagued his administration in recent months. Investigations have led to the resignations of several key officials, including his police commissioner, schools chancellor, and multiple deputy mayors. Additionally, Adams’ former buildings commissioner was charged last year in a separate bribery case involving real estate developers.
Last week, Adams’ former advisor, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, was charged with accepting bribes from developers seeking expedited construction approvals. She has pleaded not guilty, but the allegations have further eroded confidence in the mayor’s administration.
