A former top aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, already under federal scrutiny, handed a reporter a potato chip bag stuffed with cash after a campaign event, a gesture her lawyer later defended as a cultural tradition, not an attempted bribe. The incident, however, has ignited fresh questions around Winnie Greco’s ties to Adams and her controversial role in his political circle.
Cash Gift Controversy
According to The City, reporter Katie Honan received a chip bag from Winnie Greco containing a red envelope with a $100 bill and several $20 bills. Honan, who had previously investigated Greco’s fundraising practices, said she initially believed it was just a snack. Greco insisted she take it, but when Honan later discovered the money, she attempted to return it.
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Lawyer’s Cultural Defense
Greco’s attorney, Steven Brill, quickly pushed back on suggestions of misconduct. “This was not a bag of cash,” he said in an email. “In the Chinese culture, money is often given to others in a gesture of friendship and gratitude. And that’s all that was done here. Winnie‘s intention was born purely out of kindness.” Brill also noted Greco was “fond” of Honan and meant no harm.
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Greco Issues Apology
Speaking to The City later, Greco admitted regret over the incident. “I’m so sorry. It’s a culture thing. I don’t know. I don’t understand. I’m so sorry. I feel so bad right now,” she said, acknowledging her actions may have been inappropriate. She later pleaded with the outlet not to publish a story, insisting, “I try to be a good person.”…