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Key figure in Oakland FBI corruption case sought 225,000 in city grants

Oakland, CALocal News

Mario Juarez sought $225,000 in city grants while entangled in an FBI investigation into public corruption in Oakland. The grants, part of a program for struggling businesses, were overseen by Larry Gallegos, a city official named in the corruption probe involving former mayor Sheng Thao. Prosecutors allege Thao accepted bribes to facilitate a multimillion-dollar contract for a homeless housing project linked to Juarez and the Duong brothers. Juarez's grant applications were ultimately denied, prompting concern among city staff about the potential for exploitation. Neither Juarez nor Gallegos has faced criminal charges related to the allegations.

Juarez, a local businessman, previously ran for the City Council and co-founded a housing company called Evolutionary Homes. His attempt to secure city funding underlines the ongoing scrutiny of Oakland's political landscape amid these corruption allegations. The situation continues to evolve as the FBI investigation unfolds, raising questions about accountability in public service.

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