D.C. Councilmember Trayon White of Ward 8 has been charged with federal bribery for allegedly using his position to pressure government agencies into renewing public safety contracts in exchange for cash and kickbacks.

White was arrested at his home and later released on the condition he surrender his passport. Investigators claim White accepted $35,000 in cash and discussed receiving up to $156,000 in kickbacks.

The charges stem from a confidential source who reported a corrupt relationship with White dating back to 2019.

D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson plans to remove White as chairman of the Committee on Recreation, Libraries, and Youth Affairs, and the city will investigate the allegations, WUSA 9 CBS has reported.

If convicted, White faces up to 15 years in prison and disqualification from public office.

Written by B.C. Begley