Richie Akiva arrested; NYC club founder known for 1Oak and celebrity parties

Pagesix reports that Richie Akiva, the New York nightclub founder, was arrested on Wednesday; he is a well-known figure in the city’s nightlife scene. The article describes him as having a long history of high‑profile parties, celebrity connections and hospitality ventures.

The piece notes Akiva was previously arrested in March 2025 after driving with a suspended license and was taken to New York’s 9th precinct and charged with misdemeanors. A source previously said those counts included aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree and an equipment violation, and that his license was suspended over an unpaid parking ticket. Akiva founded hotspots including 1Oak and Up & Down, was part of the Butter Group, planned a rock ’n’ roll bar called E. Vil, and in June 2022 launched the members‑only club The Ned as its brand and creative director, bringing in celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Rihanna and others.

The report also recalls Akiva’s long ties to DiCaprio going back to the ’90s and recent business disputes, including a 2023 falling out with a former partner and an alleged pushout from The Ned by February 2024 over money haggling. It does not specify what legal or business steps will follow the Wednesday arrest.

Key Topics

Culture, Richie Akiva, Up & Down, Butter Group, The Ned, Leonardo Dicaprio