Adams Takeson Own Campaign Over Alleged Fundraising Irregularities Escalating NYC Political Tensions

Published in Business and Finance on Monday, August 18th 2025 at 21:51 GMT by Bill Williamson, NY Daily News
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New York City Mayor Eric Adams has filed a lawsuit against his own former campaign organization, alleging widespread fraud and mismanagement of funds raised during his 2021 mayoral run. The suit, announced late Tuesday, paints a disturbing picture of systematic deception involving shell companies, straw donors, and potentially illegal contributions from foreign sources – accusations that threaten to significantly tarnish Adams’ reputation and could have serious legal ramifications for those involved.

The core of the lawsuit centers around the “Adams For New York” campaign committee and its key figures, including Brianna Togounova and Alva Haddad. According to court documents, these individuals are accused of operating a complex network of limited liability companies (LLCs) designed to funnel illegal donations into Adams’ campaign coffers. The scheme allegedly involved soliciting contributions from foreign nationals – which is prohibited under New York State law – and disguising the true source of funds by routing them through shell corporations based in the Bronx.

The lawsuit details how these LLCs received substantial sums from individuals with ties to Turkish construction firms seeking city contracts. These companies, according to the complaint, then transferred money to other LLCs before ultimately directing it to Adams’ campaign. The alleged scheme allowed Adams' team to bypass contribution limits and potentially conceal illegal foreign influence in his election.

The mayor claims he was unaware of these activities but is now taking legal action to recover $16 million in misappropriated funds and hold those responsible accountable. He insists that the lawsuit is not an attempt to deflect blame or protect himself, but rather a commitment to transparency and ethical governance. "I am deeply disappointed by the alleged actions described in this lawsuit," Adams stated in a press conference following the filing. “My administration has zero tolerance for corruption, and we will hold those who betray the public trust accountable.”

The allegations are particularly damaging given Adams’ repeated emphasis on integrity and his efforts to reform city government. He has positioned himself as a champion of ethical conduct, making this legal battle all the more ironic and politically perilous. The lawsuit throws into question the legitimacy of his 2021 victory and raises serious concerns about the potential for foreign influence in New York City politics.

The investigation that led to the lawsuit was spearheaded by Adams’ own chief counsel, Lorna Krill Patterson, who discovered discrepancies during a routine review of campaign finance records. This internal discovery prompted a deeper dive into the campaign's finances, ultimately uncovering the alleged fraud scheme. The mayor has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies and has authorized his legal team to share all relevant information with prosecutors.

The lawsuit names several individuals beyond Togounova and Haddad, including several other people allegedly involved in managing the LLC network. These individuals are accused of various offenses, including wire fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy. The complaint seeks damages, injunctive relief (preventing further illegal activity), and an accounting of all campaign funds.

The timing of the lawsuit is also significant. Adams is currently facing scrutiny over other aspects of his administration, including concerns about housing policy and public safety. This legal battle adds another layer of complexity to his political landscape and could potentially hinder his ability to pursue his agenda.

While Adams maintains he was unaware of the alleged illegal activities, questions are inevitably being raised about oversight within his campaign organization. Critics argue that a system allowing such a complex scheme to operate undetected points to serious failures in internal controls and risk management. The mayor’s office has stated that an independent review of campaign finance procedures is underway.

The case promises to be lengthy and contentious, with potential implications extending far beyond the immediate legal proceedings. It could trigger further investigations into other political campaigns and potentially lead to criminal charges against those implicated in the alleged fraud scheme. For Mayor Adams, it represents a significant challenge that will test his leadership and resilience as he navigates this unprecedented situation. The outcome of this lawsuit will undoubtedly shape the future of New York City politics for years to come.

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Adams Takeson Own Campaign Over Alleged Fundraising Irregularities Escalating NYC Political Tensions

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