Political Consultant Arrested in Fraud Investigation
A former chief of staff to California Governor Gavin Newsom has been arrested and is facing charges related to bank fraud and wire fraud amid a political corruption inquiry.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California announced that Dana Williamson, 53, has been indicted by a federal grand jury. The charges include bank fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to defraud the United States, obstruction of justice, filing a false tax return, and making false statements.
U.S. Attorney Eric Grant described the indictment as a significant development in a political corruption investigation that has been underway for over three years. He emphasized the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to work with law enforcement to combat political corruption in California.
Details from the press release indicate that Williamson was charged with multiple counts, specifically a 23-count indictment following his arrest. It is alleged that between February 2022 and September 2024, he conspired with others to misappropriate about $225,000 from inactive political campaign funds for personal use.
Reports suggest that Williamson and his associates funneled the funds through various business entities, masquerading the money as paychecks for jobs that never actually took place.
Furthermore, it’s claimed that Williamson worked with a business partner to fabricate backdated contracts after receiving a civil subpoena in January 2024 regarding Paycheck Protection Program loans.
Special Agent Sid Patel of the FBI’s Sacramento Field Office stated that these charges stem from three years of extensive investigation, involving collaboration with the IRS Criminal Investigation. He reiterated the FBI’s ongoing vigilance in addressing fraud and corruption and maintaining high standards in government practices.
A spokesperson for Governor Newsom confirmed that Williamson, who held the chief of staff position until the end of 2024, is no longer with the administration. They noted that while they are still reviewing the allegations, the Governor insists on integrity from all public officials.
