Empire City: The Untold Origin Story of the NYPD
Episode Summary: Bonus Episode – The Fall of Eric Adams
Release Date: November 1, 2024
Host: Chenjerai Kumanyika
Guest: John Teufel, Attorney and Former Police Misconduct Investigator
Introduction: Setting the Stage
In this compelling bonus episode of Empire City, host Chenjerai Kumanyika delves into the tumultuous rise and fall of New York City's mayor, Eric Adams. Kumanyika sets the context by highlighting the historical significance of policing in NYC and its intricate ties to corruption and power dynamics.
Key Quote:
"History isn't just about the past. If you pay attention, it tells us things we need to know about the future." — Chenjerai Kumanyika (00:45)
Eric Adams: From Cop to Mayor
Chenjerai introduces Eric Adams, a former NYPD captain whose ascent to the mayoralty was initially celebrated due to his policing background. However, Adams' tenure quickly became mired in controversy and legal troubles.
Key Quote:
“He prioritizes the needs of NYPD above all else because he knows that there is nobody more powerful than the police in a police state.” — John Teufel (02:32)
Indictments and Allegations of Corruption
The episode explores the federal indictments against Adams, accusing him of bribery and corruption over nearly a decade. These charges include his alleged favoritism towards entities connected to the Turkish government, undermining his credibility and ethical standing.
Key Quote:
“Eric Adams is essentially being charged with two major things. One is bribery... he was given gratuities by entities connected to the government of Turkey.” — John Teufel (07:09)
The Culture of Policing and Its Impact on Leadership
John Teufel provides an in-depth analysis of how Adams' long-standing immersion in NYPD culture, characterized by a sense of untouchability and resistance to oversight, influenced his leadership style as mayor. This environment fostered a lack of accountability, which persisted into his political career.
Key Quote:
“Eric Adams spends years and years and years marinating in that culture... and then you make him mayor of the city of New York of 8.5 million people. What is gonna happen?” — John Teufel (05:26)
Political Maneuvering and Public Perception
The conversation shifts to Adams' political acumen, highlighting how he leveraged his police background to appeal to voters seeking safety and order. Despite rising crime rates being comparable to 2014 levels, Adams capitalized on right-wing narratives to position himself as the solution.
Key Quote:
“Eric Adams rises very high in the police department... he managed to rise to borough president in Brooklyn.” — John Teufel (10:15)
Criminal Justice and Police Discipline Under Adams
The episode examines Adams' appointment of Keshant Sewell as the first Black woman police commissioner in NYPD history. Despite initial optimism, Sewell's tenure was marked by lenient disciplinary actions against officers, culminating in her forced resignation following a high-profile incident.
Key Quote:
“Sewell, to her credit, eventually comes to the determination that he should be docked vacation days... that led to Eric Adams firing Keach and Sewell.” — John Teufel (18:05)
High-Profile Incidents and Accountability Failures
A notable case discussed involves the excessive use of force by police officers during a subway chase, resulting in the injury of bystanders and another officer. Adams publicly defended the officers, reflecting the entrenched culture of impunity within the NYPD.
Key Quote:
“Eric Adams came out and defended them and in fact, said that they were brave.” — John Teufel (19:44)
Historical Context and Future Implications
Kumanyika and Teufel reflect on how Adams' actions as mayor mirror historical patterns of police corruption and abuse of power. They argue that Adams' administration exemplifies the dangers of entrusting significant political power to individuals steeped in policing culture without adequate checks and balances.
Key Quote:
“Whether you're talking about politicians who love police or politicians who were police, the more power they get, the more power we need to keep ourselves and our communities safe.” — Chenjerai Kumanyika (20:24)
Conclusion: Lessons from the Fall
The episode concludes with a sober analysis of Adams' downfall as a case study in the broader narrative of policing and political power in New York City. Kumanyika emphasizes the importance of vigilance and accountability in preventing the misuse of power by those in authority.
Key Quote:
“In a huge city like New York or a country like the United States, it's convenient to believe that thousands of police and police leaders are going to be the answer to all of our problems.” — Chenjerai Kumanyika (21:22)
Takeaways
- Historical Insight: Understanding the NYPD's past is crucial to comprehending current issues and preventing future abuses.
- Power and Accountability: The concentration of power in individuals with policing backgrounds necessitates robust oversight mechanisms.
- Cultural Impact: The ingrained culture of impunity within the police force can significantly influence political leadership and governance.
Final Thoughts
This episode underscores the intricate link between policing history and contemporary political dynamics in New York City. Through the lens of Eric Adams' rise and fall, Empire City highlights the enduring challenges of ensuring justice and accountability within powerful institutions.
Follow Empire City:
Stay informed by following Empire City: The Untold Origin Story of the NYPD on the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Binge all episodes early and ad-free by joining Wondery+ here.