Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao Faces Trial Over Alleged $300,000 Bribery Scheme

A federal trial is set to begin next week for former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, her longtime partner Andre Jones, and California Waste Solutions executives David and Andy Duong, who face charges of bribery, conspiracy and fraud. Prosecutors allege the group promised favorable treatment for the Duongs’ recycling and housing businesses in exchange for $300,000 paid to Jones and negative political mailers during the 2022 mayoral race.

Evidence includes texts, emails, taped calls and video, but the case also relies on Mario Juarez, a co-founder of a housing company, whose credibility the defense plans to attack due to a decades-long record of fraud. Juarez is expected to describe his dealings with the defendants and the alleged quid pro quo. The defense has moved to suppress evidence obtained from Juarez, citing his unreliable background.

Jury selection starts Oct. 13, with opening statements to follow, and the trial is projected to last roughly six weeks, concluding around Thanksgiving. Several high-profile local officials have been named as potential witnesses.