Story perspectives

Ex-LAUSD IT Manager Charged in $22 Million Scheme

3/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

Hong 'Grace' Peng, former LAUSD IT manager, and Innive's Gautham Sampath face felony charges in an alleged $22 million money-laundering scheme.
Prosecutors say Peng directed contracts to Innive from 2018 to 2022, earning over $3 million.
The investigation began after a conference conversation was reported.
Text messages show concealment and Peng's bidding manipulation.
LAUSD is cooperating with authorities, and Peng's arrest warrant is pending, while Sampath's extradition from Texas is sought.

History

Historical Context

In 2016, the Supreme Court ruled in United States v. McDonnell, clarifying the definition of corruption in public office after former Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell accepted over $175,000 in gifts from a businessman. This case set a significant precedent, as recent felony charges against Hong 'Grace' Peng and Gautham Sampath reflect ongoing concerns about corruption in public contracts, underscoring the need for stricter government oversight.

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Story summary

Hong 'Grace' Peng, former LAUSD IT manager, and Innive's Gautham Sampath face felony charges in an alleged $22 million money-laundering scheme.
Prosecutors say Peng directed contracts to Innive from 2018 to 2022, earning over $3 million.
The investigation began after a conference conversation was reported.
Text messages show concealment and Peng's bidding manipulation.
LAUSD is cooperating with authorities, and Peng's arrest warrant is pending, while Sampath's extradition from Texas is sought.

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