WASHINGTON — Newly reelected Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White will not see the inside of a courtroom until January 2026. A judge set a date of Jan. 12, 2026 for opening statements in White's federal bribery case. Jury selection will take place in December 2025.
White was arrested in August and is accused of using his position to pressure government agencies to renew lucrative public safety contracts in exchange for cash and the promise of further kickbacks.
White pleaded not guilty in federal court Sept. 12.
The allegations against White include accepting cash payments and negotiating future kickbacks with a confidential human source (CHS) who had a corrupt relationship with him dating back to 2019. The CHS, who has already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, claims that White facilitated the renewal of contracts worth over $5 million between the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) and the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS). These contracts were reportedly connected to companies owned by the CHS.
According to charging documents, White is alleged to have accepted at least $35,000 in cash during several meetings between June and July. He is also accused of negotiating a 3% kickback on contract renewals and expecting to receive up to $156,000 from the scheme. White allegedly discussed future contracts in the mental health and housing sectors as part of the scheme.
The U.S. Attorney’s office offered White a plea deal on Aug. 22, which he declined on Sept. 6. Defense lawyer Frederick Cooke declined to provide details about the plea deal. White’s defense team has waived his right to a speedy trial. The U.S. Attorney’s office was pushing for a trial in April, while the defense argued they need additional time to review the evidence against White.
Outside the courtroom following Wednesday's hearing, White said he plans to fight in court.
"We have to hear the voice of the people. 20,000 people voted for me last week. We want to represent the people of D.C. well, and I plan on having meetings with certain leaders in the community to ensure that we are moving Ward 8 forward," White said.