Ingrid Lewis-Martin, a former top aide to New York Mayor Eric Adams, has resigned amid expectations of imminent criminal indictment related to alleged improper gifts.
The big picture: Her abrupt resignation comes amidst an administration that has been embroiled in criminal investigations, and it was referred to as a “planned retirement” by the mayor’s office.
- Lewis-Martin’s lawyer Arthur Aidala stated that she expected to be indicted and had been invited to speak with a grand jury, but declined, citing a predetermined outcome of the investigation.
Driving the news: The case involves gifts given to Lewis-Martin, although further details were not disclosed, and her lawyer claimed the case was politically motivated without providing evidence.
- Lewis-Martin denied any wrongdoing, stating that she has never taken gifts or money during her tenure.
- The resignation coincides with Mayor Adams facing federal corruption charges related to luxury travel perks and illegal campaign contributions, to which he has pleaded not guilty.
- Lewis-Martin’s phones were seized, and her home was searched by prosecutors in late September, with her lawyer suggesting that prosecutors were targeting her to cooperate against Adams.
