Top Prosecutor Resigns Over DOJ Directive to Drop Charges Against NYC Mayor
Danielle Sassoon, the acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, resigned on Thursday, February 14, 2025, after refusing to comply with a Justice Department directive to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Sassoon, a Republican appointed by former President Donald Trump, stepped down amid escalating tensions between her office and DOJ leadership over the handling of the case.
The controversy stems from a federal bribery and campaign finance case against Adams, who was accused of accepting luxury travel gifts in exchange for political favors. The Justice Department, under acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove, ordered the dismissal of the charges, citing concerns that the case was interfering with Adams’ ability to assist in federal immigration enforcement efforts. Sassoon, however, argued in a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi that the dismissal was unjustified and suggested a quid pro quo arrangement, where Adams’ support for Trump’s immigration policies influenced the decision.
Sassoon’s resignation was followed by the departure of several other top DOJ officials, including leaders of the Public Integrity Section, who also refused to sign off on the dismissal. The case has sparked significant backlash, with critics accusing the Justice Department of politicizing the legal process. Adams’ lawyer denied any quid pro quo, calling the allegations “a total lie.”
The fallout has left the future of the Adams case uncertain, with no immediate resolution in sight. The controversy underscores broader tensions within the Justice Department and raises questions about the independence of federal prosecutors in politically sensitive cases.
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