Manhattan Prosecutor Resigns After Refusing to Drop Case Against NYC Mayor

WASHINGTON: A Manhattan prosecutor quit after refusing to drop a case against NYC Mayor Eric Adams.
Danielle Sassoon called the dismissal order a “dangerous precedent” undermining justice.
She was promoted by Trump before resigning over the controversy.
Her departure follows two other justice department officials stepping down.
This highlights tensions over Trump administration law enforcement changes.

Corruption Allegations

Adams allegedly accepted over $100,000 in gifts from Turkish citizens for favors.
He denies the charges, originally filed by Biden-appointed officials.
Trump appointee Emil Bove ordered prosecutors to dismiss the case.
Bove claimed it hindered Adams’ efforts on “illegal immigration and violent crime.”
The justice department may reinstate charges after NYC’s mayoral election.

Prosecutor’s Defense

Sassoon refused, arguing the case had strong legal grounds.
She wrote to Attorney General Pam Bondi, opposing dismissal.
She insisted Adams committed crimes and political pressure shouldn’t affect prosecution.
Sassoon claimed Adams’ lawyers suggested a quid pro quo.
Adams’ attorney denied any deal, calling it “a total lie.”

Justice Response

Bove accused Sassoon of pursuing a politically motivated case.
An internal investigation was launched against her and other prosecutors.
John Keller and Kevin Driscoll also resigned in protest.
Three more justice department prosecutors later stepped down.
Sassoon previously worked on FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried’s prosecution.