By: Daisy Fey

A Brooklyn real estate developer who allegedly funneled illegal campaign contributions to Mayor Eric Adams at the urging of a Turkish diplomat is set to plead guilty, federal authorities announced Friday. This marks the first guilty plea in a historic corruption investigation that has rocked New York City politics, according to the New York Post.

Erden Arkan, a Turkish-born businessman and owner of KSK Construction Group in Williamsburg, has signaled his intention to admit to charges of conspiracy and wire fraud, prosecutors revealed. Arkan stands accused of orchestrating a scheme to provide fake “straw donations” to Adams’ 2021 mayoral campaign, allegedly at the request of Reyhan Özgür, a Turkish diplomat. Özgür reportedly facilitated free or heavily discounted Turkish Airlines flights for Adams, according to court filings.

In court documents, Özgür is accused of lobbying Adams to expedite the opening of Turkey’s consulate building in New York City. Federal prosecutors allege that Arkan played a key role in channeling illegal donations to Adams’ campaign as part of this effort. When contacted by the New York Post, Arkan declined to comment, stating only, “I’m so busy, thank you.” His attorney did not immediately respond to requests for further remarks.

A social media post featuring Arkan highlights his ties to KSK Construction Group, which operates in Williamsburg and has played a significant role in Brooklyn’s real estate market. However, Arkan’s alleged involvement in the scheme has cast a shadow over his professional accomplishments.

Meanwhile, Mayor Eric Adams has repeatedly denied any involvement in or knowledge of the alleged illegal activities. His attorney, Alex Spiro, downplayed the significance of Arkan’s decision to plead guilty, stating that it would have no impact on Adams’ legal standing.

“We know from the government’s own interviews that Mr. Arkan repeatedly said that Mayor Adams had no knowledge of his actions,” Spiro told the New York Post. “Mr. Arkan’s conduct will have no bearing on the Mayor’s case whatsoever.”

The scandal has drawn intense scrutiny due to its implications for New York City governance and the historic nature of the indictment, which represents a rare corruption charge involving a sitting mayor. The investigation has raised questions about the influence of foreign officials on local politics and the integrity of campaign financing.

As the case unfolds, the plea agreement is expected to shed light on the broader network of individuals and entities involved. Federal prosecutors have not disclosed whether Arkan’s cooperation might lead to further charges or revelations about other parties.

The New York Post has been closely following developments in the case, which has gripped the city’s political landscape. Observers are watching closely as the legal and political ramifications of the investigation continue to unfold, with the potential to impact not only Mayor Adams’ administration but also broader perceptions of accountability in city government.