Office of DC Council Member Trayon White Releases Statement Following Arrest on Bribery Charges

WASHINGTON – Council Member Trayon White's office released a statement one day after his arrest by FBI agents.

White is charged with bribery for allegedly accepting $156,000 in cash payments using his position as a DC Council member to pressure government employees at the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) and DYRS to renew several DC contracts.

In the statement, White's office asked for “community support and understanding” at this time.

“The office of Council Member Trayon White, Sr. acknowledges the recent criminal charges filed against Council Member White.” The explanation is.

“We recognize the seriousness of this matter. We want to assure the residents and stakeholders of District 8 that our office remains fully operational and remains true to our commitment to the public. Our staff continues to work diligently to meet the needs of our citizens and ensure that important services and initiatives are not interrupted.”

Former city councilor Mary Cheh says the situation is disappointing.

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“It was a betrayal on his part because he touted himself as a man of the people and yet stole from the people,” said former DC City Councilwoman Mary Cheh.

Court documents include photos that appear to show White accepting envelopes full of cash. He is accused of pressuring government officials to renew several violence intervention contracts valued at $5.2 million.

Ryan Steward, resident of Ward 8, says it's unfortunate.

“He's selfish, but he's also helping the community. I think in all politics, even at the federal level, you have to make sacrifices where you can to get benefits, and it sucks the way our system is right now,” Steward told FOX 5.

But money isn't the only concern. The FBI arrested White in an apartment building southeast of Navy Yard. Now, many people are wondering if he lives there, because it's not in District 8. Council members must live in the district they serve.

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“That's basically fraud. I don't agree with that. It puts him in a bad light,” Steward said. “That aspect of his life kind of stands out and lessens my sympathy for him because it's kind of like he's wondering what his true intentions are. Is he trying to better himself or the community?”

DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson released a statement to FOX 5 saying the federal charges against White were deeply disturbing.

“Notwithstanding the principle that a person is innocent until proven guilty, the allegations, together with the government's affidavit, are a gut-punch to public confidence in the council,” Mendelson's statement said.

“District 8 deserves a better council member. They deserve someone who will represent them and do something for District 8, and he's not the right person to do it,” Cheh said.

There are still many questions about whether White can hold his position or not.

He was released on condition that he surrender his passport and all weapons. His next court date is September 19.