Ingrid Lewis-Martin, a key advisor to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, abruptly resigned over the weekend, citing a need to retire and focus on her family. Her resignation marks the latest twist in an ongoing corruption investigation involving several of Mayor Adams’ aides, including Martin-Lewis herself.
Her resignation comes as part of a broader probe into potential wrongdoing within the Mayor’s office, including questions surrounding city contracts and improper hiring practices, the New York Post reported.
Martin-Lewis confirmed her decision to step down on Sunday, noting that she was retiring earlier than expected. This departure follows a series of investigations into her involvement with city contracts and the hiring of several prominent figures without the usual vetting procedures.
Her resignation is effective immediately, marking a significant shift in the dynamics at City Hall. Martin-Lewis had been a long-time ally of Adams, having worked with him for nearly two decades. However, sources suggest the two had become estranged in recent months.
In September, federal investigators seized Martin-Lewis’ cellphone as part of an ongoing corruption case. She was also called to testify as a witness in a legal case that has led to scrutiny of Mayor Adams’ dealings, including the hiring of controversial figures like former police commissioner Eddie Caban and others, without proper checks.
These actions have led to an investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, with some indicating that an indictment of Martin-Lewis could be forthcoming. The investigation centers around whether Martin-Lewis used her influence to benefit certain contractors and political allies.
Despite the growing legal pressure, Martin-Lewis has remained steadfast in her support of her colleagues, with sources close to her noting that she “protected them to the end.” Her resignation comes on the heels of a public call from New York Governor Kathy Hochul for Adams to remove certain staff members, including Martin-Lewis, to help distance the administration from the growing scandal.
Martin-Lewis’ resignation is part of a broader investigation that has also ensnared other close members of the mayor’s inner circle. The city’s ongoing corruption investigation has raised questions about possible illegal activities, with both local and federal authorities focusing on city contracts and campaign donations.
In addition to the controversy over her involvement in city contracts, Martin-Lewis had also come under fire for her role in bypassing standard hiring processes. She was responsible for bringing in individuals such as Winnie Greco, Tim Pearson, and Caban without conducting the proper background checks, raising questions about transparency and accountability within the mayor’s office.
Amid this turmoil, Martin-Lewis spoke publicly about her decision to retire, expressing that it was both a personal and professional choice. She acknowledged the bittersweet nature of her exit, stating, “While I previously announced my retirement, this is still a bittersweet moment for me as government has been my life’s work.”
Despite the storm surrounding her departure, Mayor Adams praised Martin-Lewis for her decades of service to the city. He referred to her as “a friend, confidant, trusted advisor, and a sister,” noting that their close relationship made her resignation especially difficult for him to accept.
Mayor Adams, who has also faced his own legal challenges, including an indictment for accepting illegal foreign donations, expressed a mix of sadness and gratitude in his statement. “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,” he said.
Despite the legal cloud hanging over both of them, Adams emphasized that Martin-Lewis’ contributions to the city would not be forgotten. He added, “I, and every New Yorker, owe her a debt of gratitude for her decades of service to our city.”
With her retirement, Martin-Lewis plans to focus more on her family and personal life, a move she said was “necessary” after decades of public service. She expressed her hope to continue supporting the city from the sidelines, offering her backing to Adams’ administration even as she steps away from the spotlight.
