The funds were reportedly diverted between 2022 and 2024 under the guise of consulting and monitoring services that were never performed. Williamson pleaded not guilty and was released on bail pending trial.
According to prosecutors, Williamson and co‑conspirators including former Becerra aide Sean McCluskie and lobbyist Greg Campbell funneled the campaign funds into shell entities and no‑show jobs, disguised as payments to McCluskie’s spouse.
Other charges include false tax returns — with more than $1 million in personal luxury expenses allegedly claimed as business deductions — and fraudulent COVID relief loan claims.
The fallout is immediate and serious. Newsom’s office confirmed Williamson is no longer employed and emphasized the expectation of “the highest standards of integrity,” while Becerra said the charges are a “gut punch” and that he has cooperated fully with investigators.
With the indictment unsealed, this case now shines a spotlight on political finance oversight and could carry up to 20 years in prison for the accused if convicted.
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