Secret Recordings Played in Oakland Mayor Corruption Trial

Jurors in the federal corruption trial of former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao heard secret recordings of board meetings at Evolutionary Homes and California Waste Solutions. The audio, totaling roughly 40 to 45 minutes, was recorded by Cecilia Mendez, a former employee who attended the meetings in 2023 and early 2024.

Prosecutors say the Duong brothers, David and Andy, along with Mario Juarez, discussed a bribery scheme involving Thao. The scheme allegedly involved Oakland purchasing modular homes made from shipping containers for the homeless in exchange for campaign support.

“The deal is a deal.”

Mario Juarez, a co-founder of Evolutionary Homes, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy and is cooperating with prosecutors. He was reportedly Thao's former romantic partner Andre Jones's associate, and Jones received a no-show job and a $300,000 salary at Evolutionary Homes.

Recordings played in court include Juarez saying he found it disappointing that Thao was not keeping promises and warning it would be problematic for her reelection. David Duong was also heard saying "the deal is a deal."

The defense argues the government's case relies on witnesses who are not credible or truthful. Mendez was granted immunity by federal prosecutors and has prior convictions for grand theft, identity theft, and unlicensed real estate activity.

Thao, Andre Jones, and the Duong brothers have pleaded not guilty. The trial continues as prosecutors present additional evidence from the secret recordings.