Chris Wangsaporn, the chief of staff for Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do, has resigned unexpectedly, just one day after a report surfaced detailing a lucrative contract involving his wife. This sudden departure has sparked questions about the circumstances surrounding his resignation and the ongoing investigations into county contracts.
Key Takeaways
- Chris Wangsaporn resigned effective immediately after a report on a contract involving his wife.
- The contract, worth $275,000, was awarded to a nonprofit organization, Mind OC.
- Supervisor Andrew Do is facing scrutiny over his connections to various nonprofits and the allocation of public funds.
Context of the Resignation
Wangsaporn’s resignation was confirmed by a county spokesperson, who stated that he had separated from the county. The timing of his departure is particularly notable, as it follows a report by LAist that revealed his then-girlfriend, Josie Batres, was hired by Mind OC to execute a mental health contract funded by the county. The contract, valued at $275,000, has raised eyebrows due to allegations that the required work was never completed.
County officials disclosed that the full amount of the contract had been paid out, but no documentation of the work was submitted. Wangsaporn and Batres, who are now married, did not respond to requests for comments regarding the contract.
Ongoing Investigations
This incident is part of a broader investigation into the allocation of public funds by Supervisor Do. Since November, LAist has been investigating how millions of taxpayer dollars have been directed to various nonprofits, including the Viet America Society (VAS), where Do’s daughter held leadership roles. The investigation has revealed troubling patterns of financial mismanagement and potential misconduct.
A federal grand jury is currently investigating VAS, which has been accused of mishandling millions in federal tax dollars intended for feeding needy seniors. Recent court filings indicate that federal agents have conducted searches at properties owned by Supervisor Do and his family members.
Previous Reports and Findings
LAist’s investigation has uncovered significant discrepancies in how public funds were allocated:
- Over $13 million in public money was directed to VAS without proper disclosure of family ties.
- The nonprofit was two years overdue on a required audit regarding the appropriate use of meal funds.
- County officials have demanded refunds for millions in unaccounted funds and have threatened legal action against the nonprofits involved.
- Federal agents have conducted searches related to the ongoing investigation, raising further concerns about the integrity of the contracts awarded.
Conclusion
The sudden resignation of Chris Wangsaporn adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing scrutiny of Supervisor Andrew Do’s administration. As investigations continue, the public remains vigilant, seeking accountability for the management of taxpayer dollars and the ethical conduct of elected officials. The situation underscores the importance of transparency and oversight in local government, as citizens demand answers and action regarding the use of public funds.
