WASHINGTON — Federal prosecutors have requested a July 2025 trial date for DC Councilmember Trayon White’s bribery case.
"Due to the nature of this case and the publicity that it has received, the government asks that the Court summon a special jury panel and that a jury questionnaire be used," prosecutors wrote in court filings.
Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon 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.
"God is good, God is good," White said as he was being escorted out of the federal court by supporters. He has not publicly made comments about the accusation that he faces.
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. A status hearing to determine a trial date is scheduled for Nov. 13. The U.S. Attorney’s office is pushing for a trial in April, while the defense argues they need additional time to review the evidence against White.