D.C. Councilmember Trayon White Faces Bribery Charges

D.C. Councilmember Trayon White was arrested by the FBI on August 18, facing accusations of accepting $156,000 in bribes to influence contract renewals for violence intervention services aimed at at-risk youths. The bribery scheme reportedly involved payments made between June 2024 and August 2024, with White allegedly receiving cash in exchange for pressuring government employees at the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement and the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services. Following his arrest, White appeared in court and was released on a recognizance bond, although he was ordered to surrender his passport. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, with ongoing investigations into the case. White, a member of the council since 2016 and chair of the Committee on Recreation, Libraries, and Youth Affairs, was favored to win re-election in November. The investigation underscores concerns about corruption within local government and the handling of contracts valued at over $5 million.