News Summary
Orange County faces serious allegations against former supervisor Andrew Do, involving questionable COVID-19 contracts with businesses linked to the Nguyen brothers. These enterprises secured millions while allegations of fraud and misconduct surface. A whistleblower claims billing fraud in a key contract, raising red flags over the selection process and financial management. Do’s recent guilty plea to federal bribery adds to the growing scrutiny. As investigations unfold, the community demands accountability amid these troubling revelations about public funds and political connections.
Unearthing Trouble in Orange County: Former Supervisor’s COVID-19 Contracts Under Fire
Orange County is buzzing with unsettling news surrounding a former local supervisor and his questionable connections to businesses linked to brothers Larry and Gary Nguyen. It appears that these businesses, which dabble in real estate and healthcare, have landed *millions in government contracts* during the pandemic, all while Andrew Do was in office. With allegations of misconduct and fraud swirling around, this story has all the elements of a gripping drama.
A Look at the Contracts
The Nguyen brothers’ ventures weren’t just getting small change; they raked in *significant amounts* through various government contracts. This raised eyebrows from several parties, including the Board of Supervisors, CalOptima (an insurance provider), and a whistleblower. A particular contract with a *COVID-19 testing operation* called 360 Clinic is drawing heavy scrutiny, as a whistleblower has accused the clinic of *billing fraud*.
Things became even more complicated when *a property deal* was proposed in Tustin. CalOptima, an insurer, aimed to buy a property from Yorba Myrtle LLC, owned by the Nguyens, for a whopping $29.5 million. This price tag was a staggering 60% increase from the amount the brothers initially paid only months before. The deal ultimately collapsed, but not before the Nguyens pocketed *$450,000 from escrow.*
Do’s Guilty Plea Raises Eyebrows
Andrew Do, who once wielded considerable power as a supervisor, has recently pleaded guilty to *federal bribery charges*. He accepted kickbacks from contracts that were intended to provide food distribution for seniors during the pandemic. As if that wasn’t enough to raise suspicions, his relationship with the Nguyen brothers is under the microscope, especially as he failed to disclose any familial connections to them while they’re tangled up in ongoing investigations.
Contractual Mismanagement
That fateful contract with 360 Clinic was signed without any *competitive bidding*, and the fine print wasn’t made public. What’s shocking is that this clinic was formed just five days before the contract was signed! Initially, the county wouldn’t bear any costs, as it was expected that the federal government would cover testing for uninsured individuals. However, the deal morphed, placing liability on the county for so-called *“uncollectible claims.”*
Concerns were already voiced by former Health Care Agency managers who pointed out that it seemed certain individuals were getting *preferential treatment* when it came to securing these contracts. Furthermore, it appears that Supervisor Do pressured the Health Care Agency to expedite payments to 360 Clinic, even amidst worries about the clinic’s billing practices being investigated by Blue Shield of California.
Whistleblower’s Claims and Fallout
The shake-up doesn’t end there—a former employee of 360 Clinic has filed a whistleblower lawsuit, accusing the clinic of *billing fraud* and retaliation that led to her termination. Another proposal that fell through aimed to establish a senior health center for Vietnamese-speaking elders, which was sadly derailed due to these troubling allegations.
Regulatory Concerns and Property Dynamics
Regulatory communications about the Nguyen brothers’ operations raised eyebrows, some messages were even described as *threatening.* Property records suggest some connection between Hang Nguyen, a regulator, and the Nguyen brothers, but no official role has been confirmed. The Tustin property, which collapsed amid controversy, was eventually sold for a dramatically lower $19 million, well below CalOptima’s initial offer.
Conclusion
The unfolding saga in Orange County paints a troubling picture of the intersection between politics and business during a crisis. With several contracts under increased scrutiny and former officials like Andrew Do facing serious legal repercussions, residents are left wondering about the accountability of those in power. As investigations continue, many are hopeful for clarity and justice in what has become an exceptionally intricate web of allegations involving public funds, pandemic responses, and private interests.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Orange County: A Rising Scandal in Local Government
Westminster’s Healthcare Center Deal Faces Heavy Scrutiny
Corruption Claims Rock Orange County’s Healthcare Scene
California Suspends Leave Buy-Back Program for State Workers
Orange County Sues Viet America Society Over Fund Misuse
Additional Resources
- LAist: Orange County Contracts Controversy
- OC Register: Strengthening County Contract Oversight
- LA Times: Orange County Demands Return of Funds
- MSN: Orange County Supervisors Approve Meal Contracts
- ABC7: Orange County Sues Nonprofit for Fund Misuse
- Wikipedia: Corruption in the United States
- Google Search: Orange County COVID-19 contracts
- Google Scholar: Orange County government contracts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Political Corruption
- Google News: Orange County contract mismanagement
