Ex-Assembly candidate charged with illegally scamming state campaign matching system
Former Democratic Candidate Accused of Stealing $160,000 in Taxpayer Funds
In a shocking turn of events, former Democratic candidate Dao Yin is facing allegations of stealing $160,000 in taxpayer money through fraudulent means in connection with the state’s campaign matching-funds program. Yin, who ran for the New York state Assembly’s 40th District in Queens last year, has been charged with wire fraud and appeared in Brooklyn federal court for arraignment.
The accusations against Yin claim that he manipulated the system by submitting fake signatures to inflate the number of campaign contributions he received, resulting in an increased amount of public matching funds. This deceptive tactic allowed him to unlawfully obtain over $160,000 in taxpayer dollars to support his election campaign.
Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, condemned Yin’s actions, stating, “Through lies and deceit, the defendant allegedly stole over $160,000 in taxpayer dollars to fund his campaign for elected office.”
The complaint against Yin reveals that he submitted more than 200 contribution cards to the state Public Campaign Finance Board, many of which were found to be fraudulent. Despite the finance board’s attempts to verify the legitimacy of the contributions by requesting letters from donors, Yin allegedly provided fake letters in response to deceive the authorities.
Further suspicions arose when Yin’s poor performance in the primary election, where he received only around 6% of the vote, raised red flags. This discrepancy was highlighted by the fact that he had more contributors than actual voters, casting doubt on the authenticity of his campaign finances.
Brooklyn US Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. expressed outrage over Yin’s actions, stating, “The defendant, a former candidate for public office, submitted forged campaign contribution cards to fraudulently obtain thousands of dollars in public matching funds that he was not entitled to receive.” He emphasized the office’s commitment to upholding the integrity of elections and holding accountable those who violate campaign finance laws.
Yin, who has not responded to requests for comment, could potentially face up to 20 years in prison if convicted of the charges against him. The state’s campaign matching-funds program, known for its generosity, allows candidates to receive $12 in taxpayer funds for every $1 of small donations made by district residents, with no limit on the amount.
The state Board of Elections has yet to issue a statement on the matter, leaving the public to await further developments in this unfolding scandal.
