Mayor Adams’ Ally Resigns Amid Bag-of-Cash Controversy (Image Source: bloomberg.com)
A close aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Winnie Greco, has resigned following a controversy in which she allegedly handed a reporter a bag of chips that secretly contained cash. The incident, which quickly drew the FBI’s attention, unfolded during the launch of Adams’ campaign headquarters in Harlem.
According to The City, Greco approached reporter Katie Honan during the campaign event and tried to pass her a snack bag. Inside the bag, however, was a red envelope filled with money — one $100 bill and several $20 bills.
Greco later texted Honan to meet her at a Whole Foods store, where she again pressed her to accept the bag. Honan initially thought she was being offered food and declined, but Greco insisted. Only afterward did the journalist realize the bag contained cash. Honan immediately called Greco to explain she could not keep the money and would return it.
Also Read: Netanyahu Orders Hostage Talks ‘Without Delay’ While Greenlighting Gaza Offensive
Greco’s attorney, Steven Brill, defended her actions, insisting the gesture was innocent and rooted in cultural tradition. “This was not a bag of cash. 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,” he said.
When asked why the money was directed specifically to Honan, Brill added, “She knows the reporter and is fond of her.”
As the scandal intensified, Greco personally reached out to The City and made an emotional appeal for forgiveness. She phoned the newsroom in a distressed state, asking them not to publish the story. During the call, she repeatedly expressed regret for her actions, saying, “I try to be a good person. 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.”
Her words reflected both confusion and remorse, as she attempted to explain the gesture as a cultural misunderstanding rather than a bribe. However, despite her apology, the incident had already attracted public attention and escalated into a major controversy, ultimately leading to her resignation.
In response, Mayor Adams’ re-election campaign distanced itself from the incident. Campaign aide Todd Shapiro told the AP: “We are shocked by these reports. Mayor Adams had no prior knowledge of this matter. He has always demanded the highest ethical and legal standards, and his sole focus remains on serving the people of New York City with integrity.” Officials confirmed that Greco had been suspended from her volunteer role in the campaign before her resignation was made public.
