"For the first time since the FBI-led June 20 raids, there's new evidence linking figures named in the sprawling federal investigation, including the Duong family and their political operative."
"The Duong family allegedly authorized multiple secret payments to an Oakland political operative to sway the 2022 mayoral election, ensuring favorable contracts for their recycling company."
"Prosecutors alleged that at least $295,000 was funneled to the operative, who then utilized some funds to distribute unflattering, racially charged mailers targeting Thao's opponents."
"Thao, then a District 4 councilmember, won narrowly against Taylor by just 677 votes, indicating the significant potential impact of the illicit funding on the election outcome."
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