Former Adviser to NYC Mayor Eric Adams Surrenders Amid Influence-Peddling Scandal

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, a key adviser to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, turned herself in to prosecutors on Thursday to face charges in a high-profile corruption case. The indictment accuses Lewis-Martin, her son Glenn Martin II—known as Suave Luciano—and two real estate investors of orchestrating a $100,000 bribery scheme.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg alleged that Lewis-Martin exploited her powerful position to influence city decisions in exchange for financial benefits. “This was a quid pro quo scheme involving bribery, money laundering, and conspiracy,” Bragg stated, emphasizing the severity of the charges.

According to court documents, Lewis-Martin and her son used her influence at City Hall to fast-track construction permits for two business owners, Raizada Vaid and Mayank Dwivedi. The permits allegedly expedited a rooftop bar and hotel project.

Prosecutors described Lewis-Martin as “the second most senior person in City Hall,” accusing her of abusing her office for personal enrichment. Her actions, they argue, undermined public trust and tarnished the reputation of government employees dedicated to public service.

Jocelyn Strauber, Commissioner of New York City’s Department of Investigation, stated: “Monetizing public office for personal gain erodes the integrity of government and damages public confidence in our institutions.”

The indictment revealed efforts to obscure the scheme, including the use of encrypted messaging apps and coded language. Glenn Martin allegedly received two $50,000 checks in August 2023 from co-conspirators, which he deposited into a shared bank account with his mother. Some of the funds were reportedly used to buy a Porsche and pay a DJ production company.

This case is distinct from federal charges Mayor Adams faces related to alleged corruption involving luxury travel gifts. Prosecutors claim the gifts were provided in exchange for expediting fire department approvals for a high-rise Turkish consulate.

Lewis-Martin’s attorney, Arthur Aidala, has denied the allegations, claiming prosecutors are distorting the facts. “The truth is Ingrid Lewis-Martin never broke the law,” Aidala said.

Lewis-Martin also denied any wrongdoing, stating, “I have not made any arrangements to accept gifts or money for myself or my family in exchange for performing my duties.”

The scandal adds to the challenges facing Mayor Adams’ administration, casting a shadow over his leadership as investigations into corruption within his inner circle intensify.