August 21, 2025


Corruption Charges Rock NYC Mayor's Office: Close Aides Indicted in Bribery Schemes

In a significant blow to New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, two close aides have been ensnared in corruption charges as detailed in a series of indictments unveiled today by the Manhattan District Attorney's office. The former chief adviser to Mayor Adams, Ingrid Lewis-Martin, is implicated in four distinct bribery plots, sparking intense scrutiny and political repercussions as Adams seeks reelection.

According to the documents released, Lewis-Martin is accused of manipulating city processes to favor her associates. The indictments outline how she allegedly "overrode other City officials’ expertise and decision-making" to fast-track certain actions that benefitted her conspirators. These revelations come from a detailed summary available on the [Manhattan DA's website](https://manhattanda.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Satement-of-Facts_8.21.2025.pdf).

In one notable instance, Lewis-Martin, alongside Jesse Hamilton, a deputy commissioner at the Department of Citywide Administrative Services and another Adams confidant, reportedly pushed through projects for a real estate developer. The quid pro quo? Over $5,000 in home renovations for the duo, as per the charges filed against them.

These allegations are part of a broader narrative of corruption that has been weaving through City Hall, leading to Lewis-Martin’s resignation this past December. At that time, she faced separate charges, to which she has pleaded not guilty.

Amidst this controversy, Mayor Adams, who is currently running as an independent in a challenging reelection campaign, has not been directly implicated in any of the corruption cases. However, the proximity of the charges to his inner circle raises questions about governance and oversight under his administration.

The political fallout from these indictments is expected to ripple through the city’s political landscape, influencing public trust and the upcoming electoral decisions. As the legal proceedings unfold, all eyes will be on how these developments will impact Mayor Adams and the governance of America’s most populous city.