Top California Democratic strategist pleads guilty to $225,000 fraud charges
Summary
Dana Williamson, a top California political strategist connected to Governor Gavin Newsom and candidate Xavier Becerra, pleaded guilty to fraud and tax-related charges involving $225,000 taken from Becerra’s dormant campaign account. The money was allegedly diverted to Becerra’s chief of staff, Sean McCluskie, who also took a plea deal. Williamson faces up to 38 years in prison.Key Facts
- Dana Williamson admitted to stealing $225,000 from Xavier Becerra’s dormant campaign account.
- The stolen money was disguised as payment to McCluskie’s spouse for fake work.
- Sean McCluskie, Becerra’s chief of staff, took a pay cut to join the campaign and pleaded guilty in December.
- Becerra was not named in Williamson’s plea deal and denies knowing about the fraud.
- Williamson also pled guilty to making false statements and filing false tax returns claiming $1.7 million in personal expenses as deductions.
- Williamson has served as chief of staff to Governor Newsom and cabinet secretary under former Governor Jerry Brown.
- A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July, and Williamson could face up to 38 years in prison.
- The case has become a point of attack by political rivals in California’s governor race.
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