Washington, D.C. – In a startling turn of events, Trayon White Sr., the D.C. Councilmember representing Ward 8, was arrested on Sunday, August 18, 2024, by the FBI. The arrest stems from allegations that White accepted over $150,000 in bribes in exchange for using his political influence to benefit certain companies with city contracts.
The Allegations
According to the Department of Justice, White, who has been a member of the D.C. Council since 2017, allegedly accepted $156,000 in cash payments to pressure government employees into renewing contracts for violence intervention services. These contracts, valued at over $5 million, were awarded to companies involved in violence reduction initiatives across the District. The bribes reportedly included $35,000 payments made on four separate occasions between June and August 2024. The transactions were recorded on video by an FBI informant who had been cooperating with the investigation.
White also allegedly accepted a separate $20,000 bribe to assist in resolving a contract dispute for one of the companies by exerting pressure on high-level District officials. The bribes were said to have been supplemented by lavish gifts, including trips to the Dominican Republic and Las Vegas.
White’s Political Background
Trayon White has long been a controversial figure in D.C. politics. Known for his community activism and grassroots approach, White has represented one of the city’s most economically disadvantaged wards. Despite his efforts to improve conditions in Ward 8, White has frequently found himself embroiled in controversy. Most notably, in 2018, he faced backlash for promoting an antisemitic conspiracy theory involving the Rothschild family, which he later claimed to be unaware of its antisemitic nature.
White’s arrest is particularly shocking given his reputation as a protege of former Mayor Marion Barry, who also had a complex legacy marked by significant achievements and legal troubles. In 2022, White ran an unsuccessful campaign for mayor but continued his role on the Council, where he was seeking re-election later this year.
The Aftermath and Reactions
The news of White’s arrest has sent shockwaves through the District’s political landscape. D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson’s office confirmed they were aware of the arrest but had no prior knowledge of the investigation. The arrest could significantly impact the upcoming elections, where White was expected to be a strong contender for his Ward 8 seat.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the District is left grappling with the implications of these charges on its governance and the community’s trust in its elected officials. White is expected to appear in federal court soon, where more details about the case will likely emerge.
This arrest marks a significant chapter in D.C.’s ongoing battle against corruption and highlights the continuing challenges of maintaining integrity in public office.
Sources:
- WUSA9
- Politico
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