Washington, D.C. – A law firm hired by the D.C. Council has uncovered “substantial evidence” that Democratic Ward 8 Councilman Trayon White violated council rules by using his office for personal financial gain.
White, who was arrested in August on federal bribery charges, is accused of accepting $156,000 in cash in exchange for pressuring two D.C. government agencies to extend or renew contracts and grants. The charges were outlined in a federal indictment filed in September.
The investigation, conducted by Latham & Watkins LLP, concluded that White’s actions violated several provisions of the D.C. Code of Conduct, specifically within the D.C. Council’s Code of Official Conduct. Despite the findings of misconduct, the report did not find enough evidence to suggest White violated the residency requirement by living outside his ward, in the 10K Hill South apartments located in Ward 6.
White declined to cooperate with the investigation, refusing to participate in interviews or provide the requested documents.
The D.C. Council members are scheduled to meet on Monday at 9:30 a.m. to discuss the findings and decide whether to recommend sanctions based on the evidence. Chairman Phil Mendelson expressed concern about the charges, stating that while White is entitled to a presumption of innocence, the allegations have shaken public trust in the Council.
The council may consider expelling White if sufficient evidence is found that he violated the law. White was reelected to his council seat in November.
