A longtime adviser to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Winnie Greco, who resigned amid FBI scrutiny, recently presented a reporter with a potato chip bag containing cash, an act that has heightened scrutiny and controversy. The incident took place following a campaign event and was reported by a local news outlet.
The City reported that the incident involved Greco giving Katie Honan, a reporter who previously investigated her role as a significant fundraiser for Adams within the Chinese American community, a bag of snacks. Inside the bag, Honan discovered a red envelope containing a $100 bill and several $20 bills. This led to immediate concerns regarding the appropriateness of the gesture, with Greco's attorney asserting that it was not an attempted bribe, but rather a cultural expression of friendship and gratitude.
Greco's attorney, Steven Brill, emphasized that the money was not meant as a bribe, explaining that in Chinese culture, giving money can signify goodwill. “Winnie’s intention was born purely out of kindness,” Brill stated, attempting to downplay the incident. When asked about Greco’s motivations, he remarked, “She knows the reporter and is fond of her.” However, Greco later expressed regret over the incident, admitting during an interview that she made “a mistake” and did not fully understand the cultural implications of her actions.
In the wake of the controversy, Adams’ reelection campaign announced that Greco had been suspended from her role as an unpaid volunteer, and the mayor claimed he had no prior knowledge of her actions. Adams’ campaign aide, Todd Shapiro, commented on the situation, asserting their shock at the reports and maintaining that Adams holds a high standard of ethics and integrity in public service.
After the incident, Honan initially refused to accept the bag of cash, thinking it was just a snack. Once she realized the contents, she attempted to return it to Greco, who suggested they meet later but subsequently ceased communication. Greco later reached out to The City to request that they refrain from covering the story, further complicating the situation.
This incident follows Greco's resignation as Adams' director of Asian affairs amid ongoing federal investigations. Greco has been under scrutiny, with federal agents conducting searches of her properties although no criminal charges have been made against her. She was known as a key figure in Adams' fundraising efforts within the Chinese American community. The scrutiny surrounding Greco is part of a wider examination of the mayor's inner circle who faced investigations or resignations tied to federal inquiries.
Moreover, the mayor himself has faced serious allegations, including a 2024 indictment for accepting illegal campaign contributions and special favors from foreign officials. Although a federal judge dismissed the case in early 2024, citing interference with Adams’ ability to assist in federal matters, the ongoing investigations and controversies have cast a long shadow over his administration.
The situation continues to unfold, with tensions running high as both the mayor’s office and the involved parties navigate the implications of Greco's actions and the broader investigations surrounding the administration.
