Public corruption is the breach of public trust and/or abuse of position by an elected, appointed, or hired public official. A violation of public trust and/or abuse of position is investigated by the Public Integrity Unit of the District
Attorney’s Office.
Public corruption generally refers to the abuse of public office or power for personal gain or the benefit of others, in a manner that violates the law and undermines public trust.
Public corruption may include, but is not limited to:
- Bribery: An elected, appointed, or hired public official may accept or solicit bribes in exchange for favorable treatment, such as reducing charges or dismissing cases.
- Extortion: An elected, appointed, or hired public official may use their position to coerce individuals or entities into providing money, goods, or services under the threat of adverse legal action.
- Embezzlement: An elected, appointed, or hired public official may misappropriate funds or resources intended for the operation of the district attorney's office for their personal use or the benefit of others.
- Nepotism: An elected, appointed, or hired public official may engage in favoritism by hiring, promoting, or providing favorable treatment to family members or friends, rather than making decisions based on merit.
- Conflict of interest: An elected, appointed, or hired public official may participate in decisions or actions that directly benefit their personal or financial interests or those of their family members or friends, compromising their
ability to act impartially in the performance of their duties.
- Obstruction of justice: An elected, appointed, or hired public official may interfere with or attempt to obstruct the investigation, prosecution, or punishment of criminal offenses, either for personal gain or to protect others
If you know about a breach of trust and/or and abuse of position of an elected, appointed, or hired public official, please use our Public Integrity Complaint Form to send a report to the District Attorney's Bureau of Investigations.
You may also submit a complaint in writing to the following address: District Attorney, Bureau of Investigations, Attn: Public Integrity Unit, 222 E. Weber Avenue, Room 701, Stockton, CA 95202
