Overview
- Opening statements began Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, after jurors were selected and a 12‑member jury was seated for what is expected to be a multi‑week federal trial in Oakland.
- Federal prosecutors say David and Andy Duong paid about $95,000 in four payments, promised another $205,000 and financed a $75,000 negative mailer to secure promises from Sheng Thao to steer city contracts and appointments to benefit their businesses.
- The government has disclosed an inventory of more than 1,800 potential exhibits including videos, recorded calls, text messages, emails and financial records that prosecutors say will show the defendants’ scheme.
- Mario Juarez, a former Duong associate who has pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate, is the prosecution’s central witness and defense lawyers have focused on undermining his credibility.
- The trial, before Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, will navigate tightened legal standards for corruption prosecutions after recent Supreme Court rulings and could carry major political and governance implications for Oakland depending on the verdict.