Lawyers For Raymond Chow Hold 'Free Shrimp Boy' Fundraiser To Raise Money For Defense
SAN FRANCISCO (KPIX 5) -- Supporters of Raymond "Shrimp Boy" Chow, an reputed San Francisco Chinatown gangster accused in a corruption scandal involving State Sen. Leland Yee, raised money for his defense at a fundraiser Friday night.
The music, mingling, and drinks could have been from any Friday night happy hour. But there were also "Free Shrimp Boy" t-shirts offered for sale.
"The real purpose of the event tonight is hopefully to get contributions," said Tony Serra, Chow's attorney.
Chow, who is behind bars without bail, has been charged with money laundering and conspiracy to traffic stolen cigarettes and liquor.
"Doesn't anyone understand people can change, people do change," Serra said.
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Chow's lawyers claim he has changed and they are representing him pro-bono. "This guy doesn't have any money and we're doing it free and we need money," Serra said.
At least a few people were willing to donate. One man, who did not give his name, came for the t-shirt.
"That's interesting. You don't get to see that or go to a fundraiser every day," said Beate Israel-Ford of San Francisco.
For me, an intellectual curiosity, an opportunity to see the other side.
Chow's legal team is facing some setbacks. His lawyers are now under a gag order that they worry could hurt his chances for a fair trial. They hope Friday night's fundraiser shows that the community is in his corner.
"If we can get community support, community contributions, that's important," Serra said.
Chow's attorneys said they will go to court in the coming weeks to ask for a bail hearing.