News Summary
Aloha Financial Investment Inc. has filed a $15 million lawsuit against former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do, alleging false accusations of bribery and misuse of public funds. The lawsuit claims that Do’s allegations have led to severe financial repercussions for Aloha Financial, especially during the pandemic. The case also involves accusations surrounding funds mismanagement by associated organizations. As community outrage grows, this ongoing legal battle could reveal further implications for local governance and accountability.
Aloha Financial Investment Inc. Takes Legal Action Against Former Supervisor Andrew Do
In Orange County, a bombshell has dropped as Aloha Financial Investment Inc. has filed a massive $15 million lawsuit against former Orange County Supervisor, Andrew Do, and his daughters. This legal move comes in the wake of some serious allegations and a tangled web of accusations revolving around bribery and misuse of public funds during the challenging months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Accusations and Counter-Accusations
The lawsuit stems from claims that Do falsely accused Aloha Financial of bribery in a plea agreement related to a broader county investigation. This claim has serious ramifications, particularly as federal authorities have already swooped in, seizing bank accounts and property owned by Aloha Financial and its president, Thu Thao Thi Vu. Allegedly, Do made false statements that connected Aloha Financial to his shady dealings, leading to significant financial repercussions for the company.
From Restaurant to Legal Spat
Aloha Financial has been operating under the name Perfume River Restaurant and Lounge in Westminster. During the pandemic, they entered into a contract with the Viet America Society (VAS) for a county-funded meals program. However, the whole situation took a drastic turn when accusations of misusing public funds began to swirl around Do and his associates, including claims that VAS had misappropriated over $13 million in COVID relief funds meant for vulnerable residents.
A Loan or a Bribe?
At the center of the lawsuit is a significant $381,000 payment made by Aloha Financial to Do and his daughter, Rhiannon. The lawsuit argues that this payment was intended as a loan rather than a bribe, contrary to the claims made by Do. Interestingly, Rhiannon allegedly used the loan to make a down payment on a house in Tustin, presenting it as a gift in escrow documents aimed at benefiting her father.
Financial Fallout
Aloha Financial argues that these accusations and the subsequent legal chaos have resulted in severe financial damage driven by Do’s so-called “evil intent.” With prosecutors alleging that VAS’s leader, Peter Pham, laundered funds through Aloha Financial’s accounts, the company’s reputation and operations have taken a significant hit despite having no direct dealings with Do.
Do’s Troubling Admissions
To add to the drama, Andrew Do was sentenced in June to 60 months in prison after admitting to receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes over several years. He was found guilty of steering over $10 million in county contracts to VAS, all in exchange for bribes exceeding $550,000. A restitution hearing has been scheduled for August 11 to determine the amount Do will need to repay the county.
The Ongoing Legal Battle
In addition to pursuing claims against Do, Aloha Financial is also taking action against HPT Realty, believing they played a role in the allegedly fraudulent transactions involving Rhiannon Do. As if this weren’t enough, a pending lawsuit against VAS also asserts that the organization spent a mere 15% of the funds it received on actual meal delivery services, calling into question their promised commitments.
Community Reactions
Locals, including Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, have expressed outrage at the scandal, highlighting how the shady dealings have negatively impacted the community’s most vulnerable residents during a time of crisis. The legal battles continue to unfold, with the next hearing regarding the county’s civil lawsuit slated for October.
As this saga develops, the Orange County community waits with bated breath to see how it will all play out. With accusations flying and financial stakes sky-high, it seems like Aloha Financial’s fight for justice has only just begun.
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Additional Resources
- AP News: Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do
- NBC Los Angeles: Andrew Do Bribery Case
- LAist: Prosecutors Indict Peter Pham
- ABC7: Orange County Sues Viet America Society
- USA Today: Andrew Do Pleads Guilty
- Google Search: Andrew Do Orange County corruption
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.
