NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ Former Chief Advisor Indicted on Corruption Charges in Wide-Ranging Scheme Involving City Agencies

New York City’s former mayor Eric Adams’ ex-advisor, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, has been accused of accepting over $75,000 in bribes and benefits as part of a series of corruption schemes across various city agencies. The charges were announced by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and the city’s Department of Investigation on Thursday.

Lewis-Martin’s son, two siblings who own a prominent soundstage studio company in the city, and a former New York State Senator are also involved in the wide-ranging indictments. The ex-senator is currently serving as a deputy commissioner at the Department of Citywide Administrative Services and has been identified as a close ally of Adams.

Bragg stated that Lewis-Martin engaged in bribery conspiracies that had a significant impact on city government, allegedly using her position to line her own pockets by overriding public servants’ expertise. Although Mayor Adams is not mentioned in the indictment and has not been accused of any wrongdoing, the latest scandal surrounding members of his inner circle may reinforce the perception of corruption and malfeasance at City Hall during his tenure.

The charges against Lewis-Martin come at a critical point in the mayor’s reelection campaign, as he seeks a second term running as an independent after opting out of the Democratic primary following a corruption scandal last year. A spokesperson for Adams stated that he is focused on serving New Yorkers and making their city safer and more affordable. Lewis-Martin no longer works for this administration.

In April, federal charges against Mayor Adams were dismissed by a judge, sparking controversy and leading to the resignation of several high-profile prosecutors. The Department of Justice stated that the charges were hindering Adams’ ability to perform his duties, including cooperating with President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. Critics suggest that Adams is compromised and unfit to defend the city from Trump’s attacks due to his unwillingness to criticize the former president.

Recent polling indicates historically low approval ratings for Adams among New York City voters. Democratic mayoral nominee Zohran Mamdani and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is also running as an independent, frequently try to tie Adams to Trump. CNN has reached out to both campaigns for comment.

The allegations against Lewis-Martin include an alleged conspiracy where she obtained approval for a residential renovation project in exchange for thousands of dollars of catering services for events at Gracie Mansion and City Hall. According to the indictments, Lewis-Martin also used her influence to steer government contracts, fast track permits, and intervene in policy decisions in exchange for cash, speaking roles, and a television appearance.

The city’s Department of Transportation was allegedly influenced by Lewis-Martin to withdraw approval for renovations on a road frequently used by “Broadway Stages,” a production company run by Gina and Tony Argento – high-powered donors who own one of New York City’s biggest soundstage companies. In exchange, Lewis-Martin received $2,500, approximately $10,000 in catering services for an event at Gracie Mansion, and a speaking role on the TV show “Godfather of Harlem,” which was filmed at the Argentos’ studios.

Lewis-Martin and eight other co-defendants, including two corporations and former State Senator Jesse Hamilton, are expected to be arraigned in Manhattan criminal court on Thursday. Lawyers for Hamilton, Lewis-Martin’s son, and the Argentos have been contacted for comment. Arthur Aidala, an attorney for Lewis-Martin, dismissed the accusations, stating that she will plead not guilty and claiming that her actions were simply helping fellow citizens navigate the city’s bureaucracy.