For heaven's sake

To the editor:

When I read about the latest charge of corruption against one of Mayor Eric Adams supporters, it reminded me of the book and movie, “The Friends of Eddie Coyle.”  In the movie, the character played by Robert Mitchum is a gun runner who is double-crossed by many, especially his “friend,” a bar owner played by Peter Boyle. All of Mitchum’s friends are corrupt and none can be trusted, as Mitchum’s character finds out.  

A number of people around Adams, including those who helped him get elected, are of questionable character, and the latest is former NYC Buildings Commissioner, Eric Ulrich, who told investigators that Adams tipped him off to the chance that he was suspected of being involved in an illegal gambling investigation. 

This potential problem for Adams follows the recent reports of charges against several people accused of setting up a straw donor scheme to benefit Adams mayoral campaign, as well as help themselves through political favors they hoped to get once Adams took office. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg is handling this case as well as the case against Eric Ulrich.  

During an appearance on “Inside City Hall” July 13, Adams was asked if God told him he would be reelected. The mayor responded, “My path has always been clear on what God wants for me to do.”  

The belief by a leader that “God is on my side” is a dangerous conviction for the mayor, and the public, since it is, in effect, a license to do or say anything that they can justify through their religious faith. Adams’ “friends,” like Eddie Coyle’s, make me worry about the future of our city.  

Michael J. Gorman