NYC Mayor Adams Loses Another Top Aide Amid Federal Probe: Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Resigns

Another Top Aide Resigns as NYC Mayor Eric Adams Faces Growing Federal Investigations

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has accepted the resignation of his deputy mayor for public safety, Philip Banks, the latest high-ranking official to leave his administration amid a series of federal probes. This resignation follows the recent departures of Winnie Greco, the mayor’s director of Asian affairs, and Rana Abbasova, the mayor’s former liaison to the Turkish community, who was fired by the city.

Federal investigators have seized devices from all three officials, as part of separate investigations that have engulfed Adams’ administration and led to an exodus of key personnel.

Banks' Resignation Amidst Family Scandal

Philip Banks' resignation comes just days after his brother, David Banks, the city's schools chancellor, announced his own resignation, months earlier than planned, at the mayor's direction.

Federal prosecutors are investigating whether a consulting firm run by a third Banks brother, Terence, leveraged his family connections to help private companies secure city contracts. All three Banks brothers have denied any wrongdoing.

Adams Rejects Calls to Resign

Despite the mounting pressure to resign, Mayor Adams has maintained his innocence and refused to step down. He has accused the former aide, Abbasova, of misleading prosecutors for her own benefit.

Other Departures and Investigations

The resignations of Banks, Greco, and Abbasova add to a growing list of high-profile departures from the Adams administration. The city's police commissioner, Edward Caban, and a top mayoral advisor, Timothy Pearson, have also stepped down.

Federal prosecutors are also investigating whether Adams accepted illegal campaign contributions and bribes from foreign nationals, as well as allegations that he manipulated the city's matching funds program.

A Turbulent Time for Adams

These investigations and resignations have cast a shadow over Adams’ administration, raising questions about his ability to govern effectively and maintain public trust. As the investigations continue, the future of Adams' mayoralty remains uncertain.