Ex-Gavin Newsom Chief of Staff Indicted for $225,000 Theft

BREAKING: Dana Williamson, former chief of staff to California Governor Gavin Newsom, has been federally indicted for allegedly embezzling $225,000 from ex-Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. This shocking development, which comes as part of a broader investigation, raises serious questions about public integrity within California’s political landscape.

The indictment, confirmed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California, accuses Williamson, 53, of conspiring with former Becerra chief of staff Sean McCluskie and lobbyist Greg Campbell to misappropriate funds from Becerra’s past political campaign account. Authorities allege the group devised a scheme to extract funds under “false pretenses,” intending to funnel payments to McCluskie’s wife, who was supposedly tasked with monitoring the account—services that were never rendered.

This scheme reportedly began in late 2022 and continued until fall 2024, accumulating $225,000 through monthly payments of $10,000 that ultimately left Becerra’s campaign funds in jeopardy. Further allegations include Williamson filing false tax returns, claiming over $1 million in business deductions for personal expenses, including luxury travel and designer goods, which were neither legitimate nor deductible.

Williamson faces up to 20 years in prison for each count of bank fraud and conspiracy, with additional penalties for other charges including a $250,000 fine per count. The gravity of these charges underscores a significant breach of trust within the state’s leadership.

In response to the indictment, Becerra expressed profound disappointment, calling the news a “gut punch.” He stated,

“I have voluntarily cooperated with the US Department of Justice in their investigation and will continue to do so.”

Becerra, who served as California’s Attorney General, emphasized the importance of allowing the judicial process to unfold.

Newsom’s spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, clarified that Williamson is no longer affiliated with the governor’s office. Gardon stated,

“While we are still learning details of the allegations, the Governor expects all public servants to uphold the highest standards of integrity.”

She also highlighted the principle of innocence until proven guilty, especially in the current political climate.

As this urgent case develops, all eyes remain on the courtroom proceedings. The implications for California’s political framework and public trust are profound, and many are left wondering what this means for the future of leadership in the state.

Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.