The New York Times reported that two top fundraisers of New York City Mayor Eric Adams were under federal investigation for their ties with the Chinese government, and whether or not they were involved in an attempt to influence the mayoral elections.
The Times reported that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District in New York has been investigating Winnie Greco and Lian Wa Shao, Adams’ most prominent fund-raiser and his former director of Asian Affairs for the city.
In October, Greco resigned from her post as mayor of the city after reports surfaced that the FBI searched her office and home for any links with the Chinese government. According to The Times, the FBI had not previously reported on its search of Shao’s Long Island mansion.
Shao is the owner of New World Mall, Queens where Greco’s offices are located. The Times reported that hundreds of donors associated with Shao’s companies contributed to Adam’s mayoral campaign for 2021.
According to the report, at this time, neither Greco or Shao has been accused of any wrongdoing. Adams is also not connected to the investigation.
Last month, the Justice Department asked a judge to dismiss corruption charges against Adams brought by the Biden Administration. A District Court Judge canceled an upcoming hearing last week to indicate that a decision could be imminent.
The New York Post reported that Greco “disappeared”, from NYC, and may be cooperating in the investigation against Adams and his cabinet members.
In February 2024, FBI agents raided Greco’s two properties as well as her New World Mall office.
According to The Times, Adams has known Greco at least since 2014 when he appointed her honorary ambassador for Brooklyn’s Chinese Community. Greco accompanied Adams to China on at least two occasions when he served as borough president.