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

Oakland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 28, 2026 · 2m

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…