Informant Pleads Guilty in Thao Corruption Case | Oakland News

A major twist in the Oakland corruption case: key informant Mario Juarez, who helped unravel the scheme, has now pleaded guilty himself to bribery conspiracy—just months before trial. Juarez, once a partner in a recycling-backed tiny-home venture that allegedly bribed Mayor Sheng Thao and her partner, is now cooperating fully with prosecutors. He’s expected to be a star witness, exposing how bribes included fake job offers and political attack ads. His falling out with the Duong brothers—after bounced checks—led him to turn informant, triggering FBI raids. While the defense questions his credibility and seeks to exclude evidence, prosecutors see him as vital to proving the conspiracy. Another co-defendant, Bryan Azevedo, also took a plea deal. The trial looms in October, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ecc936223bc9f008