News Summary
Andrew Do, the former Orange County Supervisor, has been sentenced to five years in prison for accepting over $550,000 in bribes linked to a COVID-19 relief scheme. He directed funds intended for needy seniors to a nonprofit, where only a fraction was used appropriately. The case raises significant concerns about public trust and accountability in government, amidst ongoing investigations into associated parties.
Santa Ana, California – Former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for his involvement in a bribery scheme tied to COVID-19 relief funds, during which he accepted more than $550,000 in bribes. The rulings were made by U.S. District Judge James Selna, who emphasized the severe consequences of public corruption and its implications that exceed mere financial loss.
Do was found guilty of directing over $10 million in federal COVID relief funds to the Viet America Society, a nonprofit organization that was intended to provide meals for needy seniors. However, it was reported that only approximately 15% of the funds were utilized for their actual purpose, equating to around $1.4 million spent on meal provisioning. The remainder of the funds remains unaccounted for, raising concerns about the nonprofit’s accountability.
During the investigation, it came to light that payments from the nonprofit were funneled to Do’s two daughters, with one daughter, Rhiannon Do, being identified as an employee of the nonprofit during and after the awarded contracts. This involvement raised questions about the legitimacy of the nonprofit’s operations under Do’s supervision.
In addition to the prison sentence, Do has been ordered to pay restitution totaling approximately $878,230.80, reflecting the bribe amounts received. Federal prosecutors initially sought greater restitution, looking to recover over $10 million related to all funds involved in the scheme, illustrating the extent of financial misconduct involved in the case.
Prosecutors have pointed out that Do’s actions significantly undermined public trust and betrayed the constituents he was elected to serve during an unprecedented global health crisis. Several individuals associated with the corruption case, including those tied to the Viet America Society, are currently under investigation and face potential legal proceedings.
Do’s background reveals a once-prominent figure, known for his work as a public defender and district attorney before his election to the Board of Supervisors in 2015. His career was characterized by efforts to advocate for vulnerable populations within the community. However, his decision to engage in corrupt activities represents a stark departure from his prior reputation and responsibilities, ultimately leading to a guilty plea for conspiracy to commit bribery last year and his resignation from the Board.
Supportive testimony during the court proceedings illustrated that Do’s inclusion of his daughters in the bribery scheme appeared to be a calculated tactic to elude legal scrutiny. This highlighted a troubling pattern of exploitation that affected the very communities he once aimed to uplift through his service.
The reaction within the community has been one of disappointment, as former employee Margaret Carrigan expressed frustration with the justice system, asserting that Do’s misconduct exploited the most vulnerable groups during a time of crisis. The scandal reveals a significant breach of trust, begging the question of how such actions were able to persist unnoticed in a system intended for public good.
As the effects of this case reverberate through Orange County, it underscores the broader issues of accountability in public office, especially as communities struggle to navigate the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ongoing investigations into associates linked to the Viet America Society could lead to further revelations and consequences in the wake of this disturbing breach of public trust.
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: Prison Sentence in OC Corruption Fallout
- Wikipedia: Corruption
- LAist: Andrew Do Ordered to Pay Restitution
- Google Search: Andrew Do Corruption
- NBC Los Angeles: Andrew Do Bribery Case
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Administration
- LAist: Ethics Code Vote After Andrew Do Scandal
- Google News: Public Corruption
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, 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 OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
