News Summary
Former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to federal bribery involving COVID relief funds. His case highlights significant misappropriation of taxpayer money, with reports indicating only a fraction of the funds went to intended purposes. The fallout includes demands for restitution of nearly $900,000, alongside a deeper investigation into community trust and accountability among local officials.
Former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do Faces Stiff Sentence for Bribery
In an eye-opening twist in the world of local politics, former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do has been sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to a federal bribery charge that involved the misuse of COVID relief funds. The clock is ticking for Do as he prepares to report to prison next week, marking the end of a scandal that has shaken the community.
A Troubling Case of Misappropriation
Andrew Do, age 62, was found to have directed millions of taxpayer dollars to a nonprofit organization known as the Viet America Society in exchange for bribes. In a shocking revelation, only 15% of the funds were reportedly used for their intended purposes, leading prosecutors to brand Do as a “Robin Hood in reverse.” This phrase strikes a chord, emphasizing the betrayal felt by the community he once served.
Financial Fallout
The fallout from Do’s actions is significant. Federal prosecutors are pushing for a restitution amount of nearly $900,000, while Orange County itself is seeking to reclaim over $10 million that was funneled to the nonprofit. It’s stirring up a hefty debate on how restitution amounts will be determined, particularly given the complexities surrounding the evidence provided against Do for the full amount of fraud claims.
The Dark Side of Public Service
The disgraced former supervisor was found to have received over $800,000 in bribes, most of which were cleverly disguised by routing payments through his daughters. The manipulation of funds has not only tarnished Do’s reputation but also raised questions about the integrity of public service in the region.
Losses and Legal Ramifications
As part of his sentencing, Do has already lost a significant amount of his wealth, having forfeited $2.4 million in seized funds and properties, which included a home bought by his daughter. The Tustin property is currently on the market for around $1.3 million. The complexities of their family’s financial implications and ownership rights, especially as California is a community property state, only add to the messy aftermath of this scandal.
Efforts to Bring Change
In light of the situation, the current Orange County Supervisor has called for a thorough auditing of county contracts, aiming to ensure that similar misconduct is prevented in the future. The sentiment is clear: accountability is critical to restoring public trust.
Do’s Efforts in the Community
Before his upcoming incarceration, Do had made efforts to give back to his community by volunteering and teaching sailing to disadvantaged youth. It is worth noting, however, that his law license has been suspended due to the corruption scandal, marking a significant downfall for someone who once held a position of power.
The Broader Scope of the Case
The case doesn’t stop with Do; several federal contractors linked to the scandal, including Peter Anh Pham, are also facing charges. Pham’s current status as a fugitive raises further eyebrows, making it evident that the ramifications of this scandal extend much further.
Next Steps and Future Highlights
The restitution hearing is set for August 11, just before Andrew Do’s scheduled report date to prison. In a last-ditch effort, Do’s attorneys attempted to get a reduced sentence, citing that he had not directly profited financially from his actions. However, this argument feels almost trivial against the extensive damage caused by his actions.
Overall, this case has not only exposed glaring issues surrounding corruption in local government but has also sparked a community debate about ethical standards and public accountability. As the hearing approaches, everyone is left wondering what the future holds for Andrew Do and the Orange County community.
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Additional Resources
- ABC7 News
- CBS News
- Orange County Register
- Los Angeles Times
- LAist
- Wikipedia: Bribery
- Google Search: Andrew Do bribery case
- Google Scholar: Andrew Do corruption
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Corruption
- Google News: Andrew Do sentencing
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
