Thao Trial: Blackmail, Bribes, and Cover-Ups | Oakland News

Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao faces explosive charges in her upcoming October trial, accused of accepting bribes from the Duong brothers in exchange for political favors and city contracts. Prosecutors unveiled damning evidence including blackmail videos, secret recordings of sensitive city negotiations, and claims of fake jobs for her boyfriend. Thao allegedly shared confidential legal info that led to a $3 million payout to California Waste Solutions, and the duo allegedly orchestrated a lavish trip to Thailand after a secret vacation to Vietnam — even paying off a podcast host to bury the story. Two cooperating witnesses have already pleaded guilty, detailing how Thao allegedly steered contracts and encouraged bribery. Prosecutors also allege Thao and Jones lied about Jones’s employment to secure a home lease, and that she pushed for a fake job at Evolutionary Homes to launder illicit payments — with incriminating evidence from Andy Duong’s phone set to be introduced. All defendants remain not guilty. 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/6eab6c331ef62c25