DON'T WAIT.

We publish the objective news, period. If you want the facts, then sign up below and join our movement for objective news:

TOP STORIES

Latest News

Ex-Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao Indicted on Federal Charges

 January 18, 2025

The former mayor of Oakland, Sheng Thao, has been named in a high-profile federal indictment, spotlighting a controversial period in the city's leadership. Thao's time in office ended amid turbulence, as legal troubles now overshadow her historic two-year tenure as the first Hmong-American woman to lead a major city in the United States.

Thao, alongside her partner Andre Jones and local businessmen Andy and David Duong, faces charges of bribery, conspiracy, and mail and wire fraud as they allegedly leveraged city contracts for personal gain, NBC News reported.

The charges accuse the group of collectively orchestrating a scheme to steer municipal business to companies tied to the Duong brothers. In return, prosecutors assert that Thao and Jones received monetary benefits.

The allegations were unveiled on Friday when the indictment was made public, marking the beginning of a legal process that could have significant ramifications for all involved. Specifically, the indictment accuses Thao of orchestrating deals that involved the city purchasing housing units from a firm owned by the Duongs. Additionally, the renewal of a city contract with David Duong's recycling enterprise was allegedly part of this illicit agreement.

Alleged Financial Arrangements Detailed in Indictment

In the unfolding legal drama, prosecutors outlined a financial arrangement where the Duongs purportedly promised $75,000 to fund a mailer targeting Thao's political adversaries. Moreover, an alleged arrangement promised $300,000 for Jones in exchange for what prosecutors describe as a no-show job. If convicted, Thao, Jones, and the Duongs could each face substantial prison time. Andy Duong faces an additional charge of lying to federal agents, potentially extending his sentence by five years.

Amid these serious allegations, the four accused made their initial court appearances on Friday. This court session marks the commencement of what could be a lengthy legal battle, with the defendants preparing to fight the charges levied against them.

Lingering Fallout From Recall Election

Thao's political career had already been under scrutiny before the indictment. In November, her term was abruptly cut short by a recall election, casting doubt on her leadership abilities. During her administration, Thao managed multiple contentious issues, including the dismissal of Oakland Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong and complications surrounding public safety and housing.

Federal authorities had previously searched Thao's home in June, an event that she publicly addressed by asserting her innocence. At the time, she refused calls to step down from her position, emphasizing her commitment to continue despite growing pressure.

New Leadership On The Horizon for Oakland

The indictment arrives at a pivotal moment for Oakland, as U.S. Representative Barbara Lee has indicated interest in becoming the city's next mayor. This indicates a potential shift in leadership style and governance as the municipality searches for stability amid ongoing public concerns.

Among the reactions to the indictment, Internal Revenue Service Special Agent Linda Nguyen highlighted the broader implications of such charges, suggesting they contribute to a pervasive sense of distrust among the electorate and local leaders.

Prosecutors continue to build their case, relying on evidence that continues to emerge in this complex legal scenario. The upcoming court proceedings will provide further clarity on the depth and impact of the alleged conspiracy involving city contracts.

Historic Significance of Thao’s Mayoral Tenure

Thao's election as mayor initially marked a landmark moment for both Oakland and the Hmong community in America. However, critics quickly challenged its promise, throwing her tenure into turmoil and disrupting her career.

As the legal case advances, Oakland residents and observers across the nation continue to assess its implications for governance and the expectations placed on elected officials. This indictment will likely shape Oakland's political landscape and influence its trajectory for years to come.

While the public and officials await further developments, the city's leadership remains in a transitional phase, hoping to rebuild trust and move past the controversy surrounding its former mayor.