Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced on Thursday that former New York City mayor's chief adviser, her son, and two real estate investors have been indicted in a bribery conspiracy case. The charges allege that while serving as Mayor Eric Adams' chief adviser, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, her son Glenn D. Martin II, Raizada Vaid, and Mayank Dwivedi were involved in a scheme involving bribes exceeding $100,000. Lewis-Martin and her son are also facing charges of money laundering.
The court document states that Lewis-Martin abused her position to benefit herself and her family by selling her influence. The developers sought her help in obtaining project approvals, and she used her influence to push city officials to act in their favor.
In return for the favors, the developers allegedly paid $100,000 to Lewis-Martin's son, who shared the account with her. Some of the money was used to purchase a $113,000 Porsche last year. To conceal their activities, Lewis-Martin communicated with Vaid through an encrypted messaging app, instructing him to use it for any requests.
Lewis-Martin, who resigned from her position in City Hall, surrendered at the Manhattan district attorney's office on Thursday. Her attorney has indicated that she is expected to face criminal charges related to improper gifts.
These charges come amidst a separate corruption case involving Mayor Eric Adams, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery. The federal trial for the mayor is scheduled for next April. The Adams administration has faced multiple resignations of top officials following a series of searches and seizures by investigators.
It is important to note that these are state charges, not federal indictments as previously stated. The investigations into corruption and bribery continue to impact City Hall and raise concerns about ethical practices within the government.
