FBI agents conducted searches at the residences of three top deputies to New York City Mayor Eric Adams this week, as per a source familiar with the situation. The searches targeted Phillip Banks, the deputy mayor for public safety, Sheena Wright, the first deputy mayor, and Timothy Pearson, a former high-ranking official in the NYPD who now advises the mayor on public safety. Electronic devices were confiscated during the searches that took place on Wednesday, according to the source, who wished to remain anonymous due to the ongoing investigation.
The FBI and Adams’ spokespersons refrained from providing comments regarding the matter. Benjamin Brafman, an attorney representing Phillip Banks, confirmed a search was carried out at his client’s residence early Wednesday, but chose not to disclose further details.
This incident adds to the legal challenges facing Mayor Adams’ administration. Adams, a Democrat and ex-NYPD captain serving his first term, has encountered previous legal issues. In November, federal agents seized the mayor’s electronic devices, and his fundraiser’s residence was raided. Although Adams has refuted any misconduct, he acknowledged last month that he had been issued a subpoena by federal prosecutors.
Timothy Pearson is currently entangled in several lawsuits for alleged sexual harassment of female employees and is also under investigation for involvement in a brawl at a shelter for homeless migrants. A lawyer representing Pearson in the harassment case did not respond immediately to inquiries.
Phillip Banks was previously labeled by federal prosecutors as an “unindicted co-conspirator” in a probe into a police bribery scheme during the former Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration. Banks retired suddenly in 2014 but re-entered city government after Adams assumed office in 2022.
Sheena Wright, the first deputy mayor, shares a residence with David Banks, the city’s schools chancellor and brother of Phillip Banks. It remains unclear if investigators also sought records related to David Banks. The city’s Law Department spokesperson declined to provide comments on the matter.
