Former NYPD female colleague accuses Mayor Eric Adams of sexual assault

A lawsuit has been filed against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, accusing him of demanding sexual favours from a colleague during his time in the '90s on the police force. 

The accuser, Lorna Beach-Mathura, claimed that she sought Adams' assistance as she was facing obstacles as a Black and female NYPD employee. Instead of helping her, he tried to use her vulnerability.

"Instead of helping Plaintiff get fair treatment at the Defendant Transit Bureau, Defendant Adams preyed on her perceived vulnerability, demanding a quid pro quo sexual favor and sexually assaulting Plaintiff, revealing himself not to be the 'Guardian' he purported to be, but a predator," the lawsuit notes. 

Adams denies the allegations, labeling them as "ludicrous" and expects vindication in court. "While we review the complaint, the mayor fully denies these outrageous allegations and the events described here; we expect full vindication in court. Additionally, in 1993, Eric Adams was one of the most prominent public opponents of the racism within the NYPD, which is why the suit’s allegations that he had any sway over promotions of civilian employees is ludicrous," said Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix, lawyer for the New York City Corporation Counsel.

Beach-Mathura decided to come forward following a law change that allows survivors of sexual assault to report incidents years later. She detailed an encounter where Adams allegedly drove her to a vacant place, made sexual advances, and assaulted her, leaving her fearful due to his position as a police officer. 

"Plaintiff was frightened not only due to Defendant Adams’ appalling conduct, but also because she knew that he, as a police officer, had at least one loaded gun in the car," the lawsuit says.

After Adams fail to address Beach-Mathura's employment issue, she left her city government job. She lives currently in Florida and works as a public school teacher.