Oakland’s former mayor, a pioneer in city leadership, now faces federal charges that threaten to unravel her legacy in a web of alleged corruption. Sheng Thao served as Oakland’s mayor for less than two years before voters ousted her in a historic recall last November. She became the first sitting mayor in the city’s 174-year history to lose such a vote, with 64 percent of ballots cast against her. The campaign highlighted frustrations over rising street crime and unchecked homelessness that plagued her short term. Federal prosecutors stepped in with an eight-count indictment unsealed in January, charging Thao with bribery, racketeering, and perjury.
The case centers on a deal she allegedly struck with local businessmen David and Andy Duong before her 2022 election win. In exchange for their support, including $75,000 in attack ads against her rivals, Thao promised to steer lucrative city contracts their way once in office. The Duongs run California Waste Solutions, a recycling firm already tied to millions in Oakland deals. Prosecutors say Thao delivered on her end by pushing their business interests, even sending her partner on a taxpayer-funded trade trip to Vietnam.
The scheme also involved a $95,000 no-show job for Andre Jones, Thao’s longtime romantic partner of over a decade, who lived with her and helped raise their blended family. Jones, a former chief of staff to an Oakland councilmember, held no official city role but wielded quiet influence behind the scenes. He joined official events, edited public statements, and attended sensitive briefings on police matters, according to court filings. Both Thao and Jones have pleaded not guilty, with her lawyer dismissing the accusations as baseless. Crime trends fueled the backlash against Thao from the start.
Homicides in Oakland fell from 126 in 2023 to 86 last year, but robberies and assaults spiked earlier in her term, leaving residents on edge. Homeless encampments spread across neighborhoods, straining city resources amid a broader budget crunch. The fallout continues to ripple through Oakland politics. An FBI raid on Thao’s home last June tipped off the probe, and witnesses have since come forward with tales of bribes and favoritism.
As the case heads toward trial, it raises tough questions about trust in local government and the cost of unchecked ambition. The Sheng Thao indictment has sent shockwaves through the city.
