The U-turn has sent shock waves through the U.S. attorney’s office in Manhattan, known for its independence from the Justice Department.

The development comes after months of speculation that Trump's DOJ would take steps to end the criminal case against Adams.

The move also puts Adams on a short leash: He still could be hit with similar or additional charges if team Trump decides to send another memo to New York prosecutors. Expect more of the mayor’s feverish, embarrassing efforts to curry favor with President Trump by never publicly voicing any kind of criticism of the White House.