The top lawyer in New York City, Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix, is reportedly being pushed out by the Adams administration in favor of Randy Mastro, a veteran litigator who has previously served as chief of staff and deputy mayor for Rudy Giuliani. Hinds-Radix has been in her role for the past two and a half years and is expected to be replaced by Mastro, despite her denials of any tension with the administration. Sources indicate that Hinds-Radix is being forced out because she did not align with the administration’s expectations.
Mastro, a former federal prosecutor who is known for successfully helping clear former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie of criminal charges in the Bridgegate scandal, is in the final stages of being hired by the city. While it is unclear what the city has offered Mastro, it is likely that he would take a large pay cut compared to Hinds-Radix’s salary of $253,000 a year. Democratic political operative Ken Frydman suggested that Mayor Adams believes Mastro can help clear him of any potential legal issues in a similar way to Christie.
Mastro, who has earned a reputation as a fierce legal opponent, is expected to join the administration pending confirmation by the City Council. He has already notified his law firm about his likely departure and has met with City Hall aides regarding the new position. Mastro has donated to Adams’ re-election campaign in the past and will be part of the corporation counsel, providing legal counsel to the administration.
Hinds-Radix, who was appointed to her position in January 2022 and has previously served as an associate justice of the New York State Appellate Division, has been representing Mayor Adams in a sexual assault lawsuit. She has also been involved in a lawsuit against transportation companies over costs related to caring for migrants in the city. As the administration faces pressure from various legal issues, Hinds-Radix’s absence at recent events has been noted.
Mayor Adams is currently facing a federal examination into his campaign ties with the Turkish government and flight upgrades from Turkish Airlines. Additionally, several top officials in his administration are under investigation, including Winnie Greco, who was placed on leave after her home was searched by the FBI, and Timothy Pearson, who is accused of sexual harassment and assault. Pearson, who is being represented by outside counsel, is also under investigation for a physical altercation with a security guard.
