News Summary
Andrew Hoang Do, former Orange County Supervisor, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for a bribery scheme diverting over $550,000 from COVID-19 relief funds intended for the Viet America Society. The case highlights severe lapses in oversight and accountability during a public health crisis, with ramifications extending to other associates involved. Do’s actions eroded public trust and he faces additional financial responsibilities for restitution, marking a cautionary tale about ethical leadership in public office.
Santa Ana, California – Former Orange County Supervisor Andrew Hoang Do has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for his involvement in a bribery scheme that diverted more than $550,000 in bribes related to COVID-19 pandemic relief funds. These funds were intended to assist the Viet America Society (VAS), a charity closely affiliated with his daughter, Rhiannon Do.
U.S. District Judge James V. Selna commented that a lesser sentence would not align with the severity of Do’s offenses, emphasizing the gravity of a scheme that took advantage of public funds meant to support vulnerable populations during the national health crisis. Prosecutors revealed that only $1.4 million of the over $10 million in relief funds was actually allocated for the intended meal programs for needy seniors and disabled individuals, undermining trust in local government operations.
The bribery involved funneling these relief funds to VAS, which, despite receiving substantial financial support, provided minimal evidence of its promised services. Rhiannon Do was reportedly compensated by VAS, and investigations uncovered a significant financial transaction related to the scheme. The family’s Tustin-area home, purchased for $1.04 million in July 2023, is currently listed for sale at $1.29 million, with the proceeds set to be utilized for restitution to the county.
As part of the legal proceedings, federal authorities have forfeited the Tustin property, which includes four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and amenities conducive to family living. This strategic sale forms part of the broader measures to recover funds lost to the scheme, which prosecutors assert exploited individuals during a crisis.
Do’s legal issues emerged as he resigned from the Board of Supervisors, faced with increasing allegations and a plea agreement. Following his conviction, a restitution hearing is scheduled for August 11, where Do is expected to address the sums he exploited from the county.
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli has criticized Do’s actions for corroding public trust, highlighting the requirement for elected officials to prioritize their constituents’ needs. The implications of this scandal have extended beyond Do himself, leading to criminal charges against other associates linked to the Viet America Society as well.
The bribery scheme not only spotlighted the criminal actions of Andrew Do and his daughter but also exposed serious shortcomings in the county’s oversight and contract verification processes. Despite Do’s defense as a once-honorable public servant and a war refugee, prosecutors maintained that his actions inflicted considerable damage on community trust and support systems.
In addition to his prison term, Do has lost his pension and faces significant financial responsibilities associated with repaying the county for the bribe funds. The case serves as a reminder of the vital importance of integrity within public office, particularly during an emergency that required accountability and ethical leadership.
As investigations continue, Andrew Do’s case acts as a cautionary tale about the responsibilities of public officials and the repercussions of misusing their positions for personal gain.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Aloha Financial Sues Andrew Do for Bribery Claims
U.S. Government Seizes Tustin Home Linked to Corruption
Federal Judge Orders Forfeiture of $2.4 Million in Corruption Case
Fraudulent Billing Practices Uncovered at 360 Clinic
Andrew Do Sentenced for COVID-19 Relief Funds Bribery
Former Orange County Supervisor Sentenced for Bribery
Federal Bribery Charges Filed Against Orange County Supervisor
Orange County Prepares for Special Meeting on Bribery Scandal
Additional Resources
- LAist: Rhiannon Do and Andrew Do Case
- Wikipedia: Bribery in the United States
- KTLA: Andrew Do Sentenced
- Google Search: Andrew Do bribery case
- NBC Los Angeles: Corruption Charges
- Google Scholar: Andrew Do corruption scheme
- Los Angeles Times: Andrew Do Sentenced
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Corruption
- Gold Rush Cam: Andrew Do’s Bribery Scheme
- Google News: Andrew Do Orange County
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA
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, performances at the Pacific Amphitheatre, and community gatherings at The LAB Anti-Mall. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Visit Costa Mesa, plus leading businesses in retail, entertainment, and innovation that shape the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
