Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao Indicted in Federal Bribery Case

Thao, her partner, and two businessmen face charges for an alleged pay-to-play scheme involving city contracts and campaign benefits.

Sheng Thao, Oakland's former mayor, and three others were indicted on federal charges, including bribery and conspiracy, related to a pay-to-play scheme.
The indictment alleges Thao promised to extend city contracts and appoint officials in exchange for campaign support and financial benefits for her partner, Andre Jones.
Businessmen David and Andy Duong, key figures in the case, allegedly funded a $75,000 campaign targeting Thao's opponents and paid $95,000 to Jones for a no-show job.
The scheme reportedly involved plans for Oakland to purchase $90 million in modular housing units from the Duongs' company, which ultimately collapsed.
Federal investigators, including the FBI and IRS, uncovered the alleged corruption following a raid on Thao's home and contributions from Oakland's public ethics commission.