From The San Francisco Standard · · 1m 10s
Sheng Thao's Oakland Corruption Trial Begins
Former Oakland mayor Sheng Thao faces federal corruption trial with partner and recycling company linked to shipping container homes.
In brief
Former Oakland mayor Sheng Thao faces federal corruption trial with partner and recycling company linked to shipping container homes. Sheng Thao and associates are accused of exchanging government contracts for election mailers and bribes totaling $300,000. Originally reported by The San Francisco Standard.
Trial Begins
Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao's federal corruption trial started this week with her romantic partner and recycling company on trial.
Alleged Scheme
Prosecutors say Thao traded government contracts for free election mailers and payments to her partner Andre Jones.
Recalled Mayor
Thao was recalled by voters in November 2024 after FBI agents raided her home and her alleged co-conspirators' residences.
The Duongs
David and Andy Duong run recycling and modular housing companies accused of using bribes to gain city contracts.
Bribes and Mailers
Prosecutors allege $300,000 was promised for a 'no show job' and $75,000 for election mailers supporting Thao.
Vietnam Trip
The Duongs, Jones, and Thao were part of a 2023 trip to Vietnam highlighted in the indictment.
What to Watch
Juarez's testimony and cross-examination are expected to be among the most revealing parts of the six-week trial ending around Thanksgiving.
The big picture
Sheng Thao and associates are accused of exchanging government contracts for election mailers and bribes totaling $300,000.
