Mocobizscene – Federal agents conducted searches on Thursday at two properties owned by a key advisor to New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
The FBI spokesperson has confirmed that agents conducted morning raids at two Bronx addresses. These addresses are owned by Winnie Greco, who previously worked as a fundraiser for Adams and currently holds the position of his director of Asian affairs.
Law enforcement officials have launched an investigation, the purpose of which remains undisclosed. At this point, it is unclear whether this investigation is connected to Adams. Nonetheless, this development highlights the growing attention from law enforcement towards the Democratic mayor and his close associates.
According to an individual familiar with the situation, the U.S. attorney’s office in Brooklyn is overseeing the investigation that resulted in the raid on Thursday. This investigation is distinct from the criminal inquiry being carried out by federal prosecutors in Manhattan, which led to the seizure of Adams’ electronic devices when he was leaving an event last autumn.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the individual, who was not authorized to publicly disclose information about the investigation, shared details with The Associated Press.
Federal agents arrived at the two neighboring homes of Greco’s early in the morning around 6 a.m. and conducted thorough searches that lasted for several hours.
Greco, who served as a conduit to the city’s Asian-American communities, has been placed on administrative leave, as confirmed by a spokesperson from City Hall. Known for her exceptional fundraising skills, she had been closely working with Adams for more than ten years.
In November, the Department of Investigation for the city initiated an investigation into her conduct. The investigation was prompted by a news report that raised concerns about her political fundraising activities and whether she leveraged her position in the administration for personal gain.
The report, published by the local news outlet The City, states that Greco required a city employee to perform renovations on her home without payment while on the job.
At least the third aide to Adams, Greco, had his home targeted by federal agents. In November, the FBI raided the homes of two other individuals connected to the mayor – Brianna Suggs, a top fundraiser for Adams, and Rana Abbasova, who worked in his international affairs office. Interestingly, just four days later, agents discreetly seized the mayor’s cellphones and an iPad as he was leaving an event in Manhattan.
The Manhattan prosecutors are leading an investigation into whether the Adams campaign collaborated with the Turkish government to obtain unlawful campaign contributions from foreign sources. The New York Times reported that the investigation is centered on potential funneling of funds through straw donors.
Adams has consistently evaded inquiries regarding the investigation, emphasizing that he has not been formally accused of any misconduct.
“Our administration is committed to upholding the law, and we hold all our employees to the highest ethical standards,” a spokesperson for the mayor stated on Thursday. “While we cannot comment on ongoing reviews, we will fully cooperate with any investigations that may be taking place.”
Greco did not immediately respond to a voicemail seeking comment that was left at a phone number listed under his name.
