Accused UES madam's bail to be focus of court hearing
The suburban soccer mom accused of running a brothel for elite clientele is due back in court Thursday when her attorney will try to spring her from the slammer.
Anna Gristina, 44, of Orange County, has been at Rikers Island since her arrest last month for allegedly running a ring on the Upper East Side. She was deemed a flight risk, and a Manhattan Supreme Court judge had her held on $2 million bond.
Her attorney, Peter Gleason, said in court Monday he'd offer his $2.5 million Manhattan loft as security -- and have the mother of four reside there under house arrest.
Prosecutors tried to block the move, but the judge could rule on it today.
A co-conspirator in the alleged call-girl ring, Jaynie Mae Baker, 30, was in court Tuesday and pleaded not guilty to promoting prostitution. She was released on $100,000 bail.
Meanwhile, NYPD Sgt. Richard Wall, who was linked to the ring after Gristina allegedly boasted in wiretaps of having law enforcement help, was cleared of wrongdoing by Internal Affairs. Police Commissioner Ray Kelly said Wednesday he was “not involved.”
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Newsday Live Music Series: Long Island Idols Newsday Live presents a special evening of music and conversation with local singers who grabbed the national spotlight on shows like "The Voice," "America's Got Talent,""The X-Factor" and "American Idol." Newsday Senior Lifestyle Host Elisa DiStefano leads a discussion and audience Q&A as the singers discuss their TV experiences, careers and perform original songs.