Two prominent politicians from a town in Southern California’s high desert area are currently facing scrutiny for allegedly receiving funds from a controversial Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer. The FBI’s investigation involves Lancaster Deputy Mayor Marvin Crist and City Councilman Raj Malhi.
Reports indicate that on April 15, FBI agents executed raids that involved escorting both officials from their residences at gunpoint, apparently as part of a broader investigation. During these operations, authorities confiscated various documents and electronic devices.
The investigation included searches at multiple locations to uncover any links between Crist and Malhi with BYD, a Chinese electric vehicle company known for testing its first U.S. electric bus in Lancaster.
In addition to their homes, Lancaster City Hall and an associated development firm also underwent searches. Search warrant details suggest that agents were looking for records related to any “items of value” that BYD may have provided to elected officials or political action committees.
The warrant allowed agents to access phones, computers, and other digital gadgets, including those that may contain deleted or encrypted information and those secured with biometric technology.
The inquiry seems to cover activities from 2018 to the present, focusing on crucial individuals, financial dealings, and political contributions. There are indications that officials sought information on governmental actions that BYD is considering pursuing in the area.
Neither Crist nor Malhi has commented publicly. So far, there have been no arrests or charges filed.
BYD, known for producing competitively priced electric cars globally, has not yet introduced its vehicles on U.S. roads. Previous safety concerns and high tariffs complicate their entry into the market.
This connection with Lancaster began in 2013, when the city was selected to host a new electric bus manufacturing facility, which received significant investment from BYD.
The factory, boasting over 750 employees, is recognized as the largest electric bus production site in the U.S. During 2020, Lancaster’s public transportation fleet transitioned to fully electric buses, including models made by BYD.
Mayor Rex Paris defended Crist and Malhi, expressing surprise at the ongoing investigation. He emphasized his long-standing trust in both, referring to them as men of honor.
Paris has been the mayor for two decades and noted that the FBI had previously contacted City Hall about related transactions, but he believed the matter had been laid to rest.
Allegedly, federal agents have gathered evidence about Malhi, even going so far as to interview numerous people and ask them to document conversations.
BYD reportedly contributed to the political campaigns of both Crist and Malhi, adding another layer to the investigation. A developer who also faced a search is known to have supported Malhi’s campaign.
BYD has been a topic of controversy due to concerns over its potential to threaten U.S. auto manufacturers and the risks associated with its technology.
Recently, three senators urged the President to prevent Chinese automakers, including BYD, from operating in the U.S., citing security risks.
In a statement, a city spokesperson indicated that Lancaster is unaware of the finer details of the FBI probe.
The timing of the FBI raid was notable, as it occurred shortly after recent city council elections. Crist, who had served for 16 years, chose not to run again.
Malhi, who has been on the council since 2015, narrowly lost his seat in the latest election but has been part of the city’s Planning Commission for many years.
FBI representatives confirmed the execution of search warrants in Lancaster but refrained from disclosing specifics, as the affidavit supporting the warrant remains sealed.
