Part of the indictment against New York City Mayor Eric Adams should be dismissed because the “alleged conduct does not support the bribery charge,” his defense attorney, Alex Spiro, argued Monday after filing a motion to dismiss the charge.

“There was no quid pro quo. There was no ‘this for that,'” Spiro stated, defending Adams against accusations of pressuring the FDNY to expedite an inspection at the new Turkish consulate in Manhattan after allegedly receiving over $100,000 in flight upgrades and luxury hotel stays from Turkish officials.

Adams has pleaded not guilty to a five-count federal indictment, which includes allegations of corruption during his time as Brooklyn Borough President. Spiro emphasized that Adams held a ceremonial role with no authority over the FDNY, dismissing the bribery accusations as unfounded.

Meanwhile, one of Adams’ most trusted advisers, Tim Pearson, submitted his resignation just days after the mayor was indicted. Pearson, who had served with Adams as a police officer and later became a key advisor, had his home raided earlier this month as part of the investigation.

Adams released a statement, acknowledging Pearson’s long career in public service: “Tim has had a long career in both the public and private sectors, where he has spent over 30 years keeping New Yorkers safe. We appreciate Tim’s decades of service to this city and wish him well.”

Spiro also downplayed the significance of the alleged gifts Adams received, comparing the flight upgrades to a politician getting preferential treatment at a restaurant. “Gratuities are not federal crimes. Courtesies to politicians are not federal crimes,” he said, adding that personal travel and upgrades are not required to be disclosed.