Ingrid Lewis-Martin Resigns Amid Controversy Over Alleged Improper Leasing Practices in Adams Administration

Envelope labeled resignation in a box of office items.

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, a top aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, has resigned amid an investigation into alleged improper leasing practices, adding to the mounting controversies surrounding the Adams administration.

At a Glance

  • Ingrid Lewis-Martin, chief advisor to Mayor Eric Adams, resigns amid investigation
  • Manhattan DA probing alleged bribery and money laundering in city property leasing
  • Lewis-Martin’s phones seized and home searched as part of the investigation
  • Resignation adds to series of high-profile exits from Adams administration
  • Lewis-Martin maintains innocence, citing retirement for family reasons

Resignation Amid Ongoing Investigation

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, once described as Mayor Eric Adams’ “sister ordained by God,” has stepped down from her role as chief advisor to the New York City mayor. Her resignation comes as she faces potential indictment by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office related to alleged improprieties in the city’s commercial property leasing practices.

The investigation, which is separate from the federal probe into Mayor Adams, reportedly involves allegations of bribery and money laundering. Lewis-Martin’s phones were seized, and her home was searched as part of the inquiry, which began after her return from Japan in September.

A Career of Public Service

Lewis-Martin’s public service career spans over four decades, beginning in 1983. She has held various roles in education and politics, serving as Adams’ chief of staff in the New York State Senate and as senior advisor during his tenure as Brooklyn borough president. In January 2022, she was appointed as Adams’ chief advisor, solidifying her position as one of his closest allies.

“To my political partner, brother, and friend, Mayor Eric Adams: I thank you for seeking me out, way back in 2004, and asking me to run your Senate campaign. I thank you for seeing in me things that I did not see in myself. I extend humble gratitude to you for encouraging me to be my authentic self and for having my back during some trying times. As you would say, this has been a good ride; I will use author’s license and say that this has been an amazing ride.” – Ingrid Lewis-Martin

Despite the controversy surrounding her departure, Lewis-Martin maintains her innocence and cites family reasons for her decision to step down. She appeared on her lawyer’s radio show to assert her innocence, stating, “We are imperfect, but we’re not thieves, and I do believe that in the end, that the New York City public will see that we have not done anything illegal to the magnitude or scale that requires the federal government and the DA office to investigate us.”

Mounting Pressure on Adams Administration

Lewis-Martin’s resignation is part of a series of high-profile exits from the Adams administration amid ongoing investigations. Other recent departures include former NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban, senior adviser Timothy Pearson, first deputy mayor Sheena Wright, and David and Phil Banks. These departures have raised questions about the stability and integrity of the current city leadership.

“Ingrid has not been just a friend, a confidant, and trusted advisor, but also a sister. We’ve always talked about when this day would come, and while we’ve long planned for it, it is still hard to know that Ingrid won’t be right next door every day. I, and every New Yorker, owe her a debt of gratitude for her decades of service to our city.” – Adams

While Mayor Adams faces his own unrelated federal charges, the investigation into Lewis-Martin does not appear to focus on him directly. However, the mounting legal challenges and high-level departures continue to cast a shadow over his administration, potentially impacting public trust and the efficiency of city governance.

As the investigations unfold, New Yorkers are left to wonder about the future of their city’s leadership and the potential implications for municipal operations. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the full extent of the allegations and their impact on the Adams administration.

Sources:

  1. Eric Adams’ chief adviser, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, resigns effective immediately
  2. Ingrid Lewis-Martin, chief advisor to Mayor Adams, resigns; Grand jury could soon vote on indictment
  3. Adams’ top aide Ingrid Lewis-Martin expected to be indicted amid her sudden resignation, swirling probes: sources
  4. Grand Jury Said to Hear Evidence Against Chief Adviser to Mayor Adams

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