First Adams-Era Corruption Trial Opens — Without a Jury

Former New York City Buildings Commissioner Eric Ulrich stood trial on October 19, 2026 in Manhattan Supreme Court in what marks the first corruption proceeding linked to the former Adams administration. Ulrich is accused of accepting approximately $150,000 worth of bribes including New York Mets season tickets valued at nearly $10,000, gambling debt payments of $4,000, a discounted apartment in the Rockaways, artwork and a custom suit. Prosecutors allege the gifts came from business owners seeking favourable treatment on building permits and agency violations. Co-defendant Michael Mazzio, owner of Mike's Heavy Duty Towing, faces charges for allegedly funding the Mets tickets in exchange for licence assistance. Two pizzeria owners — Anthony and Joseph Livreri — have already pleaded guilty to paying Ulrich $4,000 to resolve building and health department violations. Both Ulrich and Mazzio opted for a bench trial — no jury — before Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Paul Conviser. The trial is part of a broader sweep of Adams-era corruption cases also involving former chief advisor Ingrid Lewis-Martin and former chief of staff Frank Carone.