Mayor Mamdani's Administration Steps Back from Defending Eric Adams in Decades-Old Allegation

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration plans to stop representing former mayor Eric Adams in a sexual assault lawsuit dating back to 1993. The decision follows a contentious election between the two. Adams denies the allegations, and the legal dispute is under scrutiny due to its political implications.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's administration has revealed intentions to withdraw legal support for former mayor Eric Adams in a lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault from over three decades ago. The decision unfolds in the wake of Mamdani's recent electoral victory, ending a heated contest with Adams that saw both Democrats sparring in contentious exchanges.

The lawsuit, which was initiated during Adams' tenure, alleges that he assaulted Lorna Beach-Mathura in 1993 when he served as a police officer. The accusation claims Adams sought sexual favors to advance Beach-Mathura's career. Adams refutes these claims and doubts meeting her.

The city's choice to halt legal support cites Adams' alleged actions as outside the scope of his official city duties. Mamdani's spokesperson, Dora Pekec, emphasized the independence of this decision by the city's Corporation Counsel, noting the mayor's trust in their impartial judgment. Amid these developments, the former mayor has sustained a critical stance toward Mamdani on social media.

(With inputs from agencies.)