Eric Adams Argues That Turkish Delights Slipped Into His Pasties Were Tips, Not Bribes

"First, the statute prohibits only bribes, not gratuities," he argues, pointing to Count V, which charges him with bribery under 18 USC §666.

The argument is that, yes, Adams accepted free travel perks and straw man donations for the Turkish government. But that wasn't connected to any official act, and thus it doesn't count as a bribe.

And, fine, okay, he did lean on the Fire Department Commissioner in September of 2021 to approve a building permit so that the newly constructed Turkish House would be open in time for Turkish President Erdagon's visit.

Thanks to the Supreme Court, it just might work. Chief Justice Roberts and his pals have been on a years-long crusade to legalize political corruption.

Read at Above the Law