The Manhattan Times

Sentencing of Miguel Martinez postponed until Dec. 15

by Daniel P. Bader

Northern Manhattan will have to wait a little longer to learn the fate of former City Council Member Miguel Martinez: his Oct. 21 sentencing has been postponed until Dec. 15.

Martinez pleaded guilty in July to three felony counts, including the theft of at least $100,000 from city taxpayers, after resigning his seat from the City Council. The postponement was granted by Judge Paul Crotty after Martinez’ Park Avenue lawyer, Michael Bellinger of Dorsey and Whitney LLP, requested the adjournment.

In the Sept. 8 letter to Judge Crotty, made public by the Southern District of the U.S. Attorney’s office, Bellinger explains he has a jury trial that starts in mid-October, which would interfere with his ability to prepare for Martinez’ sentencing. He also cites the leaving of Assistant United States Attorney Katherine Lemire from her post in the U.S. Attorney’s office and the fact that two other AUSAs for the district will begin a trial in November as additional reasons for the adjournment.

Bellinger said both Lemire and Martinez’ probation officer agreed to the postponement.

Crotty approved the adjournment, but made it clear it would be the only one.

“The arguments for adjournment are less than compelling; but the court will grant the extension,” Judge Crotty hand wrote on the request. “Both parties should proceed on the assumption that there will be NO further adjournments.”