In the NY Times article “Adams Not Facing Charges: Another Law’Enforcement Deception,” published on February 20, 2025, William F. Murphy III reveals the history behind retired Police Commissioner Bernard B. Kerik’s indictment and trial, which ultimately led to the revelation that the current Brooklyn District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance Jr. was appointed to serve Kerik’s former cases as Manhattan District Attorney, and their connection to the dismissal of charges against Adams and Hastings the year prior. Murphy explains that, following the ruling that indicted Kerik would have precluded Adams from running for mayor, the prosecutor’s office was tasked with handling the case. Vance’s predecessor, Robert Morgenthau, charged Vance with following up on the case, after deciding Adams was the best fit for Manhattan’s top prosecutor position. Reported allegations in the initial indictment of Kerik and two other men, including Adams and Hastings, were examined by Manhattan’s US attorney, and the investigation has remained dormant, with no indictment issued. Murphy argues that although Vance cannot be reprimanded or impeached for the dismissal of the case, the public deserves to know the answers behind the decision and how the integrity of his office is being protected. The outcome of this case remains in limbo, as no resolution can be reached before Tuesday’s mayoral primary.
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