Assemblymember Valencia Makes Statement on the Release of an Investigative Report Looking into Corruption at Anaheim City Hall.

ANAHEIM – Yesterday the City of Anaheim released a long-awaited report from an independent firm tasked with assessing allegations of political corruption in City Hall. The City first commissioned the report in August 2022, with the support of then-Council Member Avelino Valencia, after the resignation of former Anaheim Mayor Harry Sidhu and the indictment of another prominent local player amid a federal investigation.

Assemblymember Avelino Valencia has this statement:

“The findings of this report expand on the lack of transparency and abuse of public resources by corrupt individuals in Anaheim. Former Mayor Harry Sidhu, and some of his closest allies, acted for personal and political gain at the expense of what was best for our city. Their behavior was disgraceful and inexcusable. I am hopeful that the City Council will use this report, along with feedback from residents and experts, to bring about needed ethics reforms in Anaheim.

Further, the lack of cooperation by Visit Anaheim and the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce is cause for concern. The potential funneling of tax dollars by these organizations, as highlighted in the independent investigation, demands the need for further examination. As a member of the California Joint Legislative Audit Committee, I will be requesting that the State Auditor conduct an inspection of the usage of public funds received by these entities."

Assemblymember Valencia added:

“Residents deserve to know the extent of the corruption that took place in the City of Anaheim. It is a critical step in restoring transparency and public trust.”