Orange County Supervisors Demand Tougher Sentencing in Bribery Case

News Summary

The Orange County Board of Supervisors is taking a strong stance in urging the U.S. Attorney General to reconsider sentencing recommendations for former supervisor Andrew Do, involved in a bribery scandal that diverted millions in COVID relief funds intended for vulnerable communities. With his sentencing set for June 2025, concerns are being raised about potential unequal accountability in this case compared to others. The board is advocating for justice and accountability, emphasizing the lasting harm caused to the community.

Orange County Supervisors Call for Tougher Sentencing in Bribery Scandal

In a bold move, the Orange County Board of Supervisors is gearing up for a significant vote on April 8. They are urging the U.S. Attorney General, Pamela Bondi, along with the Department of Justice, to take another look at the plea agreement and sentencing recommendations in the controversial bribery case involving former supervisor Andrew Do.

Background on the Scandal

Back in October, Andrew Do pleaded guilty to accepting bribes linked to a scheme designed to siphon off public funds. Federal prosecutors detailed how Do was at the center of this graft, having directed approximately $9.3 million in federal COVID relief funds to a nonprofit organization called the Viet America Society. Shockingly, it has been reported that only around $1.4 million of that hefty sum was actually utilized for its intended purpose—providing meals for elderly citizens and individuals with disabilities.

The crux of the allegations revolves around Do admitting to pocketing at least $550,000 in bribes. It’s a situation that raises eyebrows and questions about fairness, especially given its impact on vulnerable communities throughout Orange County.

Concerns Over Special Treatment

The memo the board is preparing expresses growing concerns that Andrew Do may have received “special treatment.” The single bribery charge he faces is seen by many as insufficient to truly reflect the gravity of his corrupt actions. The board is also keen to investigate whether other individuals may have been complicit in this scheme, highlighting fears of incomplete justice and a perceived inequality in accountability among those involved.

What Could Happen Next?

The current plea agreement does not specify a minimum prison term for Do’s actions. However, the bribery charge does carry a maximum sentence of five years. As it stands, Do’s sentencing is scheduled for June 9, 2025. This has sparked discussions about the potential for a stiffer sentence, given the gravity of the situation.

For comparison, a notable case mentioned involved former Lynwood Mayor Paul Richards, who received a staggering 16-year sentence for similar corruption-related offenses. This disparity in sentences is fueling further discontent and calls for accountability from the board.

Advocacy for Justice

Supervisors, specifically Janet Nguyen and Doug Chaffee, are vocal about the importance of accountability in this situation. They insist that the harm caused by Do’s decisions has had lasting effects on the community, particularly among its most at-risk members. Their argument centers on principles of justice and the need for honest governance.

Pushback from Defense

On the flip side, Do’s attorney has condemned the Board’s attempts to sway the judicial process, labeling them as reprehensible. The federal judge overseeing the case has also made it clear that while Do has a plea agreement, he is not strictly bound by it and will exercise his own discretion when determining the final sentence.

Broader Implications

Meanwhile, investigations into the misuse of COVID relief funds are unfolding, with more individuals potentially involved. In a surprising turn, Rhiannon Do, Andrew Do’s daughter, has agreed to cooperate with the ongoing inquiries and is set to enter a diversion program. This also includes the forfeiting of a home that was bought with funds that had allegedly been misappropriated.

Federal prosecutors have firmly stated that corruption, particularly when it diverts crucial resources meant for vulnerable populations, is simply unacceptable. They are committed to addressing this issue head-on.

As the April 8 vote approaches, all eyes will be on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, eagerly awaiting their decision and its implications for justice within the community.

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Additional Resources

• LAist: Orange County Supervisors Call for Longer Andrew Do Prison Recommendation
• ABC7: Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do Pleads Guilty in Corruption Case
• NBC Los Angeles: Feds to Announce Corruption Charges Against Andrew Do
• Wikipedia: Corruption in the United States
• Google Search: Andrew Do corruption