NYC Mayor Adams' Top Aide Faces Corruption Charges

Ingrid Lewis-Martin, a former top aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, surrendered to authorities on Thursday to face corruption charges. This latest development adds to the growing number of investigations surrounding the mayor's administration.

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Lewis-Martin, who resigned from her position on Sunday, was seen entering the office of District Attorney Alvin Bragg. A press conference is scheduled for Thursday afternoon to address the charges, which are reportedly related to alleged improper gifts.

Lewis-Martin's Attorney, Arthur Aidala, stated earlier this week that she was expected to face criminal charges. Lewis-Martin herself has proclaimed her innocence, denying any prior arrangements to accept gifts or money in exchange for her services.

The Widening Investigation

This event further complicates the already troubled Adams administration. Mayor Adams himself is facing federal charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery, with a trial scheduled for next April. The ongoing investigations have resulted in several high-profile resignations, including the NYPD commissioner, schools chancellor, multiple deputy mayors, and the director of Asian affairs. The situation has been described as a series of searches and seizures conducted by investigators.

The investigation into Mayor Adams began after federal agents searched the home of his top fundraiser, Brianna Suggs, whom Lewis-Martin refers to as her goddaughter. Federal prosecutors met with Lewis-Martin in September at an airport, serving her with a subpoena while Manhattan prosecutors seized her phones and searched her home.

The details surrounding the charges against Lewis-Martin remain undisclosed, pending the official announcement at the press conference.