In a conversation with WNYC-FM radio and the Gothamist, litigation & enforcement partner Brian Blais discussed U.S. Attorney Damian William’s approach to pursuing corruption cases involving the New York region’s most powerful officials, including current New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
“Policing corruption by public officials is, I think, one of the highest ideals and objectives of the office,” said Brian, a former U.S. Assistant Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
Brian noted that the U.S. Supreme Court has made it “increasingly difficult” for prosecutors to prove a government official traded their power for bribes. If an indictment were to be sought against the mayor, Brian expects the appeals unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office would review the case beforehand, to anticipate any issues that could arise.
“I think they'll be particularly careful in bringing public corruption cases in light of what happened in [the case of then-Lt. Gov. Brian] Benjamin,” Brian said.
In light of allegations that the investigation of Adams involved a foreign government, Brian also noted “there’s always a little bit more sensitivity when there’s a foreign government involved.”
Stay Up To Date with Ropes & Gray
Ropes & Gray attorneys provide timely analysis on legal developments, court decisions and changes in legislation and regulations.
Stay in the loop with all things Ropes & Gray, and find out more about our people, culture, initiatives and everything that’s happening.
We regularly notify our clients and contacts of significant legal developments, news, webinars and teleconferences that affect their industries.