In a dramatic turn of events, Oakland’s former Mayor, Sheng Thao, along with her longtime partner Andre Jones and the Duong family behind a recycling business, have been charged in a high-profile federal bribery case. The indictment, unsealed on Friday, accuses them of using bribery and conspiracy to secretly influence the city’s recycling contracts.
What’s the Alleged Scheme?
The indictment details a “pay-to-play” plot where the Duong family allegedly funneled $95,000 for “no-show jobs” to gain leverage. The goal? To secure extended contracts for their recycling company, California Waste Solutions. At a news conference, prosecutors painted a vivid picture, likening the case to something straight out of a mobster film.
Linda Nguyen from the IRS said, “The people of Oakland and the wider Bay Area deserve better.” She called out the accused for failing to meet the standards of transparency and honesty expected from public officials.
The Early Days of the Scheme
The story unfolds even before Thao took office. In 2022, weeks before her victory as mayor, Thao allegedly struck a deal with the Duongs, promising to support their business interests in exchange for personal benefits. The investigation hints at a cozy relationship between Thao and the Duongs, with discussions about how much money they stood to gain if Thao won the election.
One chilling quote from a co-conspirator to Andy Duong said, “We may go to jail, but we’re $100 million richer.” Andy Duong reportedly responded, “Money buys everything.”
A Long Road to Justice
This saga comes after FBI agents raided multiple homes, including Thao’s and the Duongs’, in summer 2024. The feds are still piecing together the full story. Prosecutors are continuing their investigation, with charges including conspiracy, bribery, mail fraud, and false statements to authorities.
Thao, Jones, and the Duongs have all pleaded not guilty. Thao’s lawyer insists that the case is built on weak allegations and that they plan to prove her innocence in court. For now, the accused are out on bond, awaiting the next steps in what’s shaping up to be a lengthy legal battle.
How This Affects the Community
This scandal has rocked Oakland. Thao, who was once a rising star in local politics, is now facing the fallout of a rapid fall from grace. Known for her fiery political style and frequent feuds with the city’s institutions, her tenure as mayor was already under scrutiny. The latest charges only add fuel to the fire, especially after she was removed from office in a recall election.
Meanwhile, the Duongs, who had cultivated a public image as philanthropists and community supporters, are now under intense scrutiny. They’ve denied the charges and are vowing to clear their names in court.
Looking Ahead
This case is far from over. As the investigation continues, questions remain about the true depth of the corruption and how many others were involved. One thing’s for sure: this scandal will likely make headlines for months to come.
