Trayon White: D.C. Councilmember Arrested on Federal Bribery Charges

Monday, 19 August 2024, 03:00

Trayon White, a D.C. councilmember, was arrested on federal bribery charges, marking a significant moment in regional politics. The Justice Department announced that White allegedly accepted $156,000 to influence government contracts. His arrest has raised concerns over ethics in local governance and the implications for ongoing city contracts. The charges could lead to serious repercussions, including a potential 15-year prison sentence.

Nbcnews — Trayon White: D.C. Councilmember Arrested on Federal Bribery Charges

Arrest Details of Trayon White

D.C. Councilmember Trayon White was arrested on Sunday on federal bribery charges, the Justice Department announced Monday. A criminal complaint alleges that, starting in June, White agreed to accept $156,000 in cash payments in exchange for leveraging his role as a D.C. councilmember to pressure government employees at the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement and DYRS to extend several contracts in the district.

Federal Charges and Court Appearance

White, 40, made his initial appearance in a packed federal courtroom shortly after noon on Monday and was released pending further proceedings in his case. White, who did not enter a plea during this initial appearance, was largely silent during the proceedings, only speaking to answer questions from Magistrate Judge G. Michael Harvey. He appeared wearing a gray sweatshirt, black pants, and gray sneakers.

Potential Consequences

The charge carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. The conditions of release for White include surrendering his passport and any guns he may own, as well as notifying pretrial services about travel outside the D.C. region. White is also forbidden from speaking to witnesses about the case except in the presence of counsel.

Government Contracts Involved

White is the chairman of the city council’s committee on Recreation, Libraries, and Youth Affairs, overseeing several agencies including the city’s Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services. The contracts White allegedly sought to pressure were valued at $5.2 million. The arrangement with the owner of the two companies in question was reportedly caught on video.

Ongoing Investigation

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, the FBI Washington Field Office, the D.C. Office of the Inspector General, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Washington Field Office are handling the ongoing investigation into White’s alleged involvement in the bribery scheme. U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Matthew Graves stated that the office took swift steps to address the alleged crimes.

Next Steps

White’s next court appearance will be a status hearing on Sept. 19. The D.C. city council had no prior awareness of any investigation into White.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.