FBI Raids Oakland Mayor’s Properties Over Campaign Finance Violations

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a series of search warrants at properties owned by Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao earlier today. FBI spokesperson Cameron Polan confirmed the agency’s authorized activity at Maiden Lane and View Crest Court. The FBI, in collaboration with other enforcement agencies, were seen carrying out operations at various locations in Oakland, focusing on residences linked to Thao.

Property records connect Mayor Thao to a residence on Maiden Lane where FBI agents were spotted carrying out searches. Similarly, agents were seen entering a property on View Crest Court, which has ties to the Duong family, owners of California Waste Solutions – a prominent recycling provider in Oakland and San Jose. The Duong family has been under scrutiny due to alleged illegal campaign contribution activities involving Oakland city officials.

Officials from the Oakland Public Ethics Commission have an ongoing investigation regarding claims of campaign finance irregularities against the Duong family. Simon Russell, the commission’s enforcement chief, confirmed that the case is under review, citing confidentiality constraints on divulging further details. The FBI’s recent actions at multiple Oakland locations indicate a significant development in these investigations.

Last year, Mayor Sheng Thao and other officials participated in a trade mission to Vietnam, organized by the Vietnamese American Business Association (VABA), spearheaded by members of the Duong family. The association’s involvement in promoting Oakland as a trade partner raises questions about potential intertwined interests between business entities and political figures.

The FBI also conducted searches at other properties connected to the Duong family, including a location on Embarcadero Way and Skyline Boulevard. California Waste Solutions, managed by the Duong family, issued a statement reaffirming full cooperation with the investigative authorities, expressing confidence in the legality of their operations.

Mayor Thao’s absence at a scheduled event amid the FBI raids has ignited public curiosity and speculation. With political and financial entanglements surfacing, the scrutiny on local officials and their affiliations with business entities continues to unfold in Oakland’s political landscape.