UPDATE: A federal indictment has just been issued against Dana Williamson, the former chief of staff to California Governor Gavin Newsom, on serious allegations of stealing $225,000 from former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. This shocking news is breaking now, as authorities confirm the charges involve conspiracy and fraud that could lead to significant prison time.
The indictment reveals that Williamson, alongside Becerra’s former chief of staff Sean McCluskie, lobbyist Greg Campbell, and two others, are accused of misappropriating funds from Becerra’s campaign account. The group allegedly created a scheme under “false pretenses,” intended to pay McCluskie’s wife for monitoring the account. However, the indictment states that no such services were ever provided.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eastern District of California, the fraudulent payments, amounting to $10,000 per month, began in late 2022 and continued until the fall of 2024, culminating in the total theft of $225,000. In addition to the theft, Williamson allegedly filed false tax returns, claiming over $1 million in business deductions that were actually personal expenses, including lavish private jet travel and designer handbags.
If convicted, Williamson faces severe consequences: up to 20 years in prison for bank fraud and conspiracy charges, as well as significant fines. Becerra expressed deep disappointment in a statement, calling the allegations a “gut punch” and reaffirming his commitment to cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Newsom’s spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, emphasized that Williamson no longer works for the governor and stressed the expectation for public servants to uphold the highest standards of integrity. Gardon also highlighted the importance of the legal principle of innocence until proven guilty, especially in the current political climate where investigations are highly scrutinized.
As this situation unfolds, it raises critical questions about the integrity of public service and the potential ramifications for those involved. With the investigation still developing, public attention is focused on how this case will impact California politics and the reputation of its leaders.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent story as more details emerge.
