D.C. Council investigates Trayon White over bribery allegations

The D.C. Council has initiated an investigation into Councilman Trayon White following his arrest by FBI agents last month. He faces allegations of accepting a $156,000 bribe to influence city officials regarding contracts for violence intervention services worth $5.2 million. White has pleaded not guilty to the federal charges. The council's motion for the investigation was unanimously approved, with all members except White participating in the ad hoc committee led by Councilman Kenyan R. McDuffie. The investigation will be supported by the law firm Latham and Watkins, with an estimated cost of $400,000 to taxpayers. McDuffie emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, which could lead to White's removal from office depending on the investigation's findings. Additionally, the council will verify whether White resides in Ward 8, as required for his position, amid claims that he actually lives in Ward 6. In light of the ongoing investigation, White has been removed from his role as chairman of the youth affairs committee, which oversees the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services. The council is expected to present its findings by December 16, after which White will have 30 days to prepare a defense. A vote on potential disciplinary actions, including censure or removal, will require a majority of 11 out of 13 council members. Despite the serious allegations, White remains on the ballot for the D.C. Council and has not indicated any intention to withdraw his candidacy. The situation has prompted a significant number of Democratic community members to run as write-in candidates, reflecting the political implications of the investigation.