Former Mayor, Others Smacked With Bribery and Fraud Charges

Former Mayor, Others Smacked With Bribery and Fraud Charges

Sheng Thao, former Oakland Mayor, is embroiled in a federal indictment involving bribery and fraud charges that cast a long shadow over her political career.

Quick Takes

  • The indictment accuses Thao, her partner Andre Jones, and businessmen David Trung Duong and Andy Hung Duong of bribery offenses.
  • Charges include conspiracy to commit bribery, honest services fraud, and making false statements.
  • Thao allegedly traded favorable city contracts for campaign contributions.
  • The defendants first appeared in court on January 17.

Indictment Details

An unsealed eight-count indictment outlines serious charges against former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, her partner Andre Jones, and businessmen David Trung Duong and Andy Hung Duong. All face allegations involving bribery and fraud as they allegedly engaged in unlawful dealings to gain personal advantages and political contributions. The indictment implies that Thao offered advantageous city dealings and appointments in exchange for financial gains.

According to authorities, fraudulent invoices and nondisclosure tactics were used to conceal the corrupt exchanges. If the parties are convicted, they risk severe consequences, including lengthy prison sentences. Each faces up to 35 years in prison, with Andy Duong facing an additional five years.

Defendants’ Alleged Activities

The charges against Thao’s business associates, David Trung Duong and Andy Hung Duong, include making false statements to government agents. The indictment details how Thao allegedly assured the issuance of contracts favoring the Duongs and extending their business interests. Allegations include funding a smear campaign against her political rivals and arranging a no-show job for Jones, which illustrates the depth of the alleged misconduct.

These alleged benefactions were meant to secure reliable and profitable business dealings for the Duongs. Financial records suggest Thao personally benefited from the arrangement through shared expenses with Jones, adding to the concerns about how deep the corruption extended.

Prosecution and Legal Proceedings

The prosecution, led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office with support from the FBI, USPIS, and IRS-CI, indicates the seriousness of the allegations. The weight of the charges highlights the robust legal action brought forth. The defendants first appeared in court on January 17.

For the public, the proceedings underline the critical need for transparency and accountability in governance. Investigators and prosecutors reiterate their commitment to upholding the public trust by ensuring that those in power are held to account for corruption.

Sources

  1. Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, Thao’s Longtime Partner, And Two Local Businessmen Charged With Bribery Offenses
  2. Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao faces federal bribery and fraud charges
  3. Former Oakland Democrat Mayor Sheng Thao Indicted On Bribery, Fraud Charges