Washington D.C. Councilmember Trayon White, accused of accepting bribes totaling $156,000, faced an expulsion hearing on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The hearing, convened by the legislative body, centered on alleged violations of the D.C. Council’s Code of Official Conduct.
The Justice Department alleges that White accepted cash payments in exchange for leveraging his position to influence government contracts within the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement and the D.C. Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services. These alleged transactions began in June 2024, according to the criminal complaint.
White, who has pleaded not guilty, could face up to 15 years in prison if convicted. His trial is scheduled for January 2026. Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, White secured re-election to his seat in November 2024, winning by a significant margin.
During the expulsion hearing, White had the opportunity to present his defense and question witnesses. Expulsion requires an affirmative vote from 11 out of the council's 13 members. The final vote on White’s expulsion is scheduled for February 4th.
