Particle.news

Ex–San Leandro Councilmember Pleads Guilty in East Bay Bribery Case, Agrees to Cooperate

His cooperation positions him as a government witness at the October trial of other defendants.

Overview

  • Bryan Azevedo pleaded guilty in Oakland federal court to conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud and making false statements.
  • He resigned from the San Leandro City Council the day before the hearing, and the council will consider how to fill his seat on Feb. 17.
  • U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers acknowledged Azevedo’s cooperation, and prosecutors plan to call him in the case involving Sheng Thao, Andre Jones, and David and Andy Duong.
  • Sentencing will follow the October trial, with a December date scheduled, and the charges carry maximum penalties of up to 20 years and 5 years, respectively.
  • Prosecutors tie the scheme to Evolutionary Homes and allege Azevedo accepted $2,000 after a Vietnam trip and took official actions to advance the company’s interests, including pushing an emergency shelter ordinance and arranging tours.