FBI raids 2 homes of NYC mayor’s director of Asian affairs Winnie Greco
March 1, 2024
FBI agents conducted searches at two residences belonging to Winnie Greco, a longtime associate of New York Mayor Eric Adams.
About the raid: The morning raids took place at two of Greco’s Bronx properties, which are located on the same block, at around 6 a.m. on Thursday. Although the purpose of the searches were not revealed, they are reportedly part of an investigation in collaboration with prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York, known for cases related to alleged Chinese government activities in the U.S. involving diaspora control.
About Greco: Winnie Greco, a former fundraiser for Adams who now serves as his director of Asian affairs, was placed on leave on Thursday. The raids follow an ongoing investigation into allegations that Greco sought improper benefits from her position, such as demanding free renovations on her home from a city employee, with the city’s Department of Investigation previously opening the probe in November.
Alleged ties to CCP: Greco was previously alleged to be a long-time “consultant” of Chinese Communist Party-backed organizations, including the Dong Guan Association of America and the Fujian Daily Southeast Network. Her company also allegedly received money from the Propaganda Department of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the CCP, the New York Post reported in September 2023. However, Adams has dismissed allegations and maintains that Greco is a dedicated public servant who has worked to build relationships between his administration and the Asian community in New York. He labeled such insinuations as “fear-mongering” and unfounded, emphasizing her commitment to the administration and the city’s residents.
Mayor’s statement: Adams has deflected inquiries about the ongoing investigation, emphasizing that he has not faced any formal accusations of wrongdoing. Fabien Levy, a spokesperson for the mayor noted the administration’s commitment to legal compliance and ethical standards, stating they do not comment on matters under review but will fully cooperate with any ongoing investigations.
Not the first: The recent searches follow previous federal raids on associates of Adams as part of a corruption investigation. In November, the FBI also raided the homes of Brianna Suggs, a top fundraiser for Adams, and Rana Abbasova, who worked in the mayor’s international affairs office. Greco is the third aide to Adams to have her home targeted by federal agents. The ongoing investigation is reportedly examining potential conspiracies involving Adams’ campaign and the Turkish government for allegedly receiving illegal campaign contributions through straw donors.
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