Trial Begins for Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao on Corruption Charges
The federal corruption trial of former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao began after jury selection concluded on October 13, 2026.
Why it matters: This trial highlights increased legal accountability efforts for public officials accused of corruption, impacting compliance and governance practices in government contracting.
- Jury was sworn in on October 13, 2026, marking the official start of the trial.
- Thao faces charges with co-defendants Andre Jones, David Duong, and Andy Duong including conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud.
- Prosecutors allege Thao accepted up to $95,000 in bribes from the Duong family, owners of California Waste Solutions.
- The case centers on alleged pay-to-play schemes affecting city contracts, with the trial expected to last six weeks.
The federal corruption trial of former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao officially started after jury selection concluded on October 13, 2026, with 12 jurors sworn in to hear charges she and three co-defendants face.
Thao was indicted on January 17, 2025, alongside her longtime partner Andre Jones, and businessmen David and Andy Duong. The indictment document charges them with conspiracy, bribery, and wire fraud tied to a pay-to-play scheme granting the Duongs’ businesses favorable city contract treatment.
The Duongs own California Waste Solutions, which held existing contracts with Oakland and other Bay Area cities, and Evolutionary Homes, a company developing high-end tiny homes targeting homelessness solutions. Prosecutors allege Thao accepted cash bribes totaling up to $95,000 from the Duong family.
As reported by Nathan Gartrell of East Bay Times, prosecutors are expected to present detailed evidence of the alleged illicit scheme involving California Waste Solutions contracts during the trial.
Thao was recalled from office in November 2024 amid mounting corruption allegations. This trial is a critical moment for legal professionals focused on public official accountability and compliance with anti-corruption laws in government contracting.
The six-week trial will see the government seek to establish that the defendants abused their official positions for personal financial gain, setting an important precedent for white collar crime enforcement in municipal governance.
By the numbers:
- October 13, 2026 — Jury sworn in marking trial start
- $95,000 — Alleged amount of bribes accepted by Sheng Thao
- Six weeks — Expected duration of the corruption trial
Yes, but: While the case is significant, it is still in the early trial phase; outcomes and convictions are not guaranteed.
What's next: The prosecution will present its full case during the six-week trial, with witness testimony and evidence expected through November 2026.