Mayor’s Former Adviser Expected to Face Bribery-Related Charges
Background
Ingrid Lewis-Martin, the former chief adviser to Mayor Eric Adams, is expected to face bribery-related charges on Thursday, sources familiar with the matter have revealed. This news comes as no surprise, given her sudden departure from her post over the weekend.
The Allegations
According to investigators, Lewis-Martin’s son, who works as a DJ and entertainer, allegedly obtained work or financial benefits from a hotel business after her father-in-law, as senior advisor to Adams, asked the NYC Department of Buildings to look into a roadblock the hotel was facing. This has raised questions about whether Martin used her position to benefit her family members.
Investigation and Reaction
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has scheduled a joint news conference with the Department of Investigations (DOI) for Thursday afternoon, but a spokesperson declined to comment on the matter. Lewis-Martin’s lawyer, Arthur Aidala, stated that he is not familiar with the specific charges, but acknowledged that investigators have raised concerns about Martin’s actions as senior advisor to Adams.
Recent Developments in the Mayor’s Administration
This is the latest in a string of high-level departures from the mayor’s administration, following the resignations of former NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, senior adviser Timothy Pearson, first deputy mayor Sheena Wright, and David and Phil Banks, schools chancellor and deputy mayor for public safety, respectively.
Lewis-Martin’s Statement on Her Departure
In a statement, Lewis-Martin thanked the mayor for their years of friendship and work in the city, citing family reasons for her decision to step down. She also praised Adams for encouraging her to be her authentic self and having her back during challenging times.
Adams’ Response
Adams referred to Lewis-Martin as a "sister" and expressed his gratitude for her decades of service to the city.
Conclusion
The expected charges against Lewis-Martin mark a significant development in the ongoing federal investigations into the mayor’s administration. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will impact the mayor’s reputation and the city’s political landscape.
FAQs
Q: What are the allegations against Ingrid Lewis-Martin?
A: Lewis-Martin is expected to face bribery-related charges, allegedly stemming from her son’s work or financial benefits from a hotel business after her father-in-law asked the NYC Department of Buildings to look into a roadblock the hotel was facing.
Q: What is the significance of this development?
A: This marks the latest in a string of high-level departures from the mayor’s administration, and the expected charges against Lewis-Martin could have significant implications for the mayor’s reputation and the city’s political landscape.
Q: What is the reaction from the mayor’s office?
A: The mayor has referred to Lewis-Martin as a "sister" and expressed his gratitude for her decades of service to the city, but a spokesperson for the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has declined to comment on the matter.
