New York (December 19, 2024) – In a case highlighting alleged corruption within New York City’s administration, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, the former chief adviser to Mayor Eric Adams, has been charged with bribery, money laundering, and conspiracy. Prosecutors accuse her of using her position to expedite city approvals for real estate projects in exchange for $100,000 in bribes.
Also charged are her son, Glenn Martin II, known professionally as Suave Luciano, and two developers, Raizada “Pinky” Vaid and Mayank Dwivedi, who face related charges of bribery and conspiracy.
Alleged Quid Pro Quo Scheme
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office alleges that Lewis-Martin leveraged her influence to assist Vaid and Dwivedi with securing approvals for two Manhattan construction projects: the Glass Ceiling rooftop bar in NoMad and the Hotel on Rivington in the Lower East Side. Prosecutors claim these approvals were expedited despite objections from the Department of Buildings (DOB), raising concerns about public safety and regulatory oversight.
Court documents detail that Lewis-Martin received two $50,000 checks in August 2023 from Vaid and Dwivedi’s companies. These funds were deposited into a joint bank account she shared with her son. Prosecutors allege the money was used for personal purchases, including a 2023 Porsche and to support her son’s DJ business.
Encrypted communications via Signal, allegedly used to conceal their actions, form part of the evidence presented by prosecutors.
Court Proceedings and Defense Statements
All four defendants were arraigned on December 19, 2024, in Manhattan. They pleaded not guilty and were released under conditions, including travel restrictions and the surrender of passports. The charges are not considered “bail-eligible” under New York state law.
Lewis-Martin’s attorney, Arthur Aidala, stated that his client simply helped constituents navigate the complexities of city government and dismissed the allegations as baseless. Similarly, attorneys for Glenn Martin II, Vaid, and Dwivedi have denied any wrongdoing, asserting their intent to vigorously contest the charges.
Prosecutors contend the payments were disguised as personal loans, though there is no evidence they were ever repaid. District Attorney Alvin Bragg has characterized the payments as bribes, describing the alleged scheme as a clear case of “quid pro quo.”
Ongoing Investigations and Broader Context
Prosecutors revealed that Lewis-Martin is also the subject of several ongoing investigations, indicating that additional charges may emerge. Her resignation from her role as the mayor’s chief adviser occurred shortly before the indictment.
This case comes amid broader corruption probes involving members of the Adams administration. Though Mayor Eric Adams is not implicated in this case, his administration faces scrutiny in separate investigations regarding alleged unethical practices, including illegal campaign contributions.
The charges against Lewis-Martin also follow the indictment of former city official Eric Ulrich, who was charged with accepting bribes in exchange for favors related to city approvals.
Implications for Governance
The indictment against Lewis-Martin raises serious questions about the oversight and accountability of high-ranking officials. Prosecutors argue that the alleged actions prioritized personal enrichment over public safety and regulatory compliance.
As this case proceeds, it underscores the critical need for transparency and ethical governance, particularly in managing relationships between public officials and private developers.
