“As a public official, Tran was called to serve government, not to have it serve him in furtherance of his fraud schemes,” prosecutors added.
Tax Fraud Allegations
In addition to the unemployment fraud, Tran was convicted of failing to report income from his consulting job and rental property. The government described the rental income as “lucrative” and supplemental to Tran’s already substantial earnings.
Defense Challenges Convictions
Tran’s attorney, Michael Walsh of Walsh & Walsh LLP, criticized the prosecution’s memorandum, stating it “does not line up with the facts, as we see it.” Walsh said Tran maintains his innocence and plans to submit his own sentencing memorandum.
Tran previously attempted to overturn his conviction, alleging the government improperly removed non-white jurors during the trial. U.S. District Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV rejected the claim in December, finding it lacked factual basis.
Broader Legal Troubles
Tran, who unsuccessfully ran for Congress in 2022, faces unrelated state charges, including allegations of stealing an elderly woman’s firearm and lying to police. He has denied those allegations.
