Originally from Iowa, Ritzi is an aspiring actress entangled in an affair with Justice Crater and caught in the corrupt world of organized crime. Her journey involves seeking agency and longing for a simpler life away from the moral compromises she faces in the city.

Maria is the wife of Detective Jude Simon and works as a seamstress and maid, bringing her into contact with the Craters. Her character deals with the challenges of navigating a corrupt society while trying to protect her husband.

Justice Joe Crater is a corrupt New York Supreme Court Justice whose unscrupulous actions affect those around him. He prioritizes appearances and power over truth and relationships, embodying the corrupt power structure of the city.

A notorious mobster based on a real-life figure, Owney Madden is a powerful and unscrupulous character who manipulates others for his financial interests. He is deeply involved in New York's organized crime scene and shows little concern for appearances.

Jude is a detective who initially believes he earned his promotion, unaware of the connections behind it. His motivations are rooted in protecting his wife Maria, though he underestimates her capability and involvement in the world around them.