FBI raided Oakland businessmans home based on word of informant with history of fraud, defendant argues

David Duong, indicted alongside former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao for an alleged bribery scheme, contests the validity of the federal investigation, claiming it relies on an informant with a history of fraudulent behavior. His attorneys argue that the FBI failed to provide essential information to the judge who approved the search warrant for Duong's property in June 2024. The case centers around allegations that Duong and his business partner, Mario Juarez, conspired to secure homeless housing contracts through bribery. Duong's legal team seeks to suppress evidence obtained during the FBI's raid, asserting that the affidavit presented to the judge lacked sufficient evidence linking him to the alleged crimes. They highlight that the FBI's investigation stemmed from inquiries into Juarez's own fraudulent activities.

According to Duong, the FBI's narrative misrepresents his actions and intentions. The motion filed by his attorneys critiques the absence of documentary evidence connecting Duong to the bribery allegations. The case continues to unfold, with Duong's defense challenging the credibility of the evidence and the motives behind the federal investigation.