Ex-Gavin Newsom Chief of Staff Indicted for $225K Fraud Scheme

BREAKING: Dana Williamson, former chief of staff to Governor Gavin Newsom, has been federally indicted on serious charges of embezzling $225,000 from Xavier Becerra, the former Secretary of Health and Human Services. The indictment was announced earlier today, revealing a shocking scheme involving multiple former political aides.

Williamson, alongside Becerra’s former chief of staff Sean McCluskie and lobbyist Greg Campbell, is accused of conspiring to defraud Becerra’s campaign by making illicit payments under false pretenses. The scheme reportedly began in late 2022 and continued until the fall of 2024, amounting to monthly disbursements of $10,000 intended for nonexistent services.

The indictment alleges that these payments were directed to McCluskie’s wife, who was supposed to monitor the campaign account, but no such services were ever rendered. Instead, the funds were misappropriated for personal use, including extravagant private jet travel and luxury hotel stays.

Williamson also faces additional charges for filing false tax returns, claiming over $1 million in business deductions for personal expenses, including designer handbags and no-show jobs for friends and family. If convicted, she could face up to 20 years in prison and hefty fines for each count of fraud.

“The news today of formal accusations of impropriety by a long-serving trusted advisor are a gut punch,” said Becerra in a statement. “I have voluntarily cooperated with the US Department of Justice in their investigation and will continue to do so.”

Newsom’s spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, emphasized that Williamson no longer holds a position with the governor’s office. “While we are still learning details of the allegations, the Governor expects all public servants to uphold the highest standards of integrity,” Gardon stated.

This developing story raises serious questions about the integrity of public office and the implications for current political leadership. As the investigation unfolds, the public will be watching closely for further updates.

Next Steps: The U.S. Attorney’s Office is expected to provide more details as the case progresses, and Williamson is due to appear in court in the coming weeks.

The ramifications of this scandal could impact not just those involved but also reflect on California’s political landscape, as officials navigate the fallout from these serious allegations.