A Manhattan federal judge has dismissed New York City Mayor Eric Adams‘s criminal corruption case with prejudice. The “with prejudice” distinction means the case cannot be brought again, even if Adams’s relationship with President Donald Trump sours in the future.

Ho could have tried to stretch the limits of his own authority: decline to dismiss the case, and try to appoint a prosecutor to continue pursuing the charges. That would be fraught, with invite an immediate appeal, and would be unlikely to succeed.

Adams’ mayoral race rivals made clear Wednesday they will continue to paint him as willing to do President Trump’s bidding, a theme given fresh ammunition by Manhattan Federal Court

New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ federal corruption charges were permanently dismissed Wednesday as the court partially sided with the Trump administration’s Justice Department. Judge Dale E. Ho of Federal District Court in Manhattan ordered that Adams’ case be dismissed with prejudice.

Judge Dale Ho dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be revived. The Justice Department sought to have the case dismissed to free up Adams to cooperate with the mayor's immigration agenda, however, the department wanted the case dismissed without prejudice, meaning it could be brought again.