Westminster Councilmember Has Bribery Charge Dropped After Successful Completion of Diversion Program

A judge ruled on August 26 that Westminster City Councilmember Amy Phan West successfully fulfilled the requirements of a diversion program, resulting in the dismissal of her bribery case. This decision marks a significant moment for Phan West, who expressed her relief and gratitude after the ruling, noting the emotional toll the case had taken on her and her family.

The controversy surrounding Phan West has been ongoing for over a year. In January 2025, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office charged her with a misdemeanor for allegedly attempting to bribe a public officer. The charge stemmed from an incident in 2023, in which Phan West reportedly sought to intervene in the towing of her husband’s vehicle by invoking her friendship with the police chief and suggesting her role as a councilmember involved in advocating for police raises.

As part of the diversion program, which allowed for the potential dismissal of her charges, Phan West was required to complete at least 20 hours of community service and participate in a two-hour ethics class. However, Deputy District Attorney Matthew Bradbury sought to rescind this deal, suggesting that Phan West may have engaged in new violations of law since entering the program. He argued that her subsequent actions indicated a lack of ethical improvement, citing instances where she allegedly utilized public resources for campaign purposes, including passing out congressional campaign flyers at the city’s Tết parade and issuing campaign-related communications on city letterhead.

During the proceedings, Bradbury also referenced a statement made by Phan West during a congressional debate where she downplayed her bribery charge. She characterized the parking control officers involved in her case as mere ticketing personnel and likened her situation to that of high-profile figures, claiming she faced political persecution.

Despite the prosecution’s arguments, Judge Sherri L. Honer concluded that there was insufficient evidence to support claims of legal or ethical violations, ultimately siding with Phan West. Her defense attorney highlighted that she had completed her community service, paid fines, and attended the required ethics training, asserting that her comments, while possibly unrefined, did not rise to the level of ethical breaches.

Following the dismissal of her case, Phan West indicated her intention to concentrate on her upcoming campaign for reelection to the Westminster City Council, where she represents a district comprising approximately 23,000 residents. With her sights set on November’s election, she seeks to maintain her position on the council amidst the challenges of her recent legal battles.

As Westminster navigates the complexities of local governance, the implications of this case remain significant for both Phan West and the community she represents. Media News Source will continue to follow developments related to Westminster’s political landscape and the outcomes of future electoral contests.