SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A former chief aide to California Governor Gavin Newsom, Dana Williamson, has been indicted on federal charges related to a scheme that allegedly involved stealing campaign funds from former Health Secretary Xavier Becerra. Authorities revealed Williamson was arrested and is set to make her first appearance in court soon.
According to the indictment, Williamson conspired with Sean McCluskie, Becerra's former chief of staff, to divert campaign funds from Becerra's inactive account, reportedly inflating invoices for non-existent services provided by Williamson's political consulting firm. This operation purportedly led to the misappropriation of $225,000 over more than two years.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, Becerra himself has not been implicated in the indictment. A spokesperson for Newsom's office stated that Williamson no longer serves in the administration and emphasized the importance of integrity amongst public officials.
Williamson faces a total of 23 charges, which include conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud, obstruction of justice, as well as making false statements. If found guilty, she could face up to 20 years in prison. This investigation, which commenced over three years ago, highlights the need for accountability in political funding.
According to the indictment, Williamson conspired with Sean McCluskie, Becerra's former chief of staff, to divert campaign funds from Becerra's inactive account, reportedly inflating invoices for non-existent services provided by Williamson's political consulting firm. This operation purportedly led to the misappropriation of $225,000 over more than two years.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, Becerra himself has not been implicated in the indictment. A spokesperson for Newsom's office stated that Williamson no longer serves in the administration and emphasized the importance of integrity amongst public officials.
Williamson faces a total of 23 charges, which include conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud, obstruction of justice, as well as making false statements. If found guilty, she could face up to 20 years in prison. This investigation, which commenced over three years ago, highlights the need for accountability in political funding.
