Federal authorities raided a Queens hotel owned by a major donor to Mayor Eric Adams who sought special favors for development projects. The hotel is owned by Weihong Hu, a Chinese businesswoman who bundled donations to Adams’ campaign. The raid was not targeting Housing Works, an organization that operates the hotel’s short-term residential re-entry program. The investigation is related to illegal reimbursement of campaign donations and former aide Winnie Greco’s residency in a room paid for by taxpayers. Hu’s attorney did not respond to requests for comment, and the mayor’s office stated they will cooperate with law enforcement.
Federal authorities conducted a raid at a hotel in Queens owned by a prominent donor to Mayor Eric Adams, who was also involved in seeking special treatment for development projects. The search warrant was issued by prosecutors working with U.S. Attorney Breon Peace from the Eastern District of New York. The raid took place at the Mayflower Wyndham Garden Hotel in Fresh Meadows. Housing Works, the organization operating the hotel, confirmed the search took place and clarified that the targeted areas were not related to their programs for individuals transitioning from correctional settings.
It was revealed that the hotel, used by the city as a shelter, is owned by Weihong Hu, a Chinese businesswoman and developer who had bundled significant donations to Adams’ mayoral campaign in 2021. Donors to Adams’ reelection campaign disclosed that Hu’s family members reimbursed them in cash for their contributions, which is considered illegal. The hotel was also where a former aide to Adams, Winnie Greco, resided in a room funded by taxpayers, as per an investigation by THE CITY, Documented, and The Guardian.
The Eastern District had previously executed search warrants at Greco’s residences in February, leading to her resignation from City Hall in October. Hu’s attorney, Kevin Tung, did not provide immediate comment on the matter. A spokesperson for Mayor Adams stated that the administration is committed to following the law and will cooperate with any law enforcement requests, even if unrelated to the mayor.
The incident highlights the significance of transparency and accountability in political donations and government dealings. It emphasizes the importance of conducting legal and ethical practices in all aspects of public service. The involvement of federal authorities in investigating potential misconduct underscores the need for adherence to regulations and ethical standards in political and business interactions.
Source: TheCity.NYC
