Mr. Adams, a noted rat antagonist who once endorsed a special rat-drowning device, on Tuesday contested a summons and fine over an infestation at a rental property he owns.
Erin Merdy, who is charged with killing her three children, had struggled with money, men and mental health. Now, she is accused of one of New York’s worst crimes against children in recent memory.
Mayor Eric Adams said the detective showed “great restraint” during a fractious arrest of the woman’s boyfriend, but activists called for the officer to be disciplined.