Former San Francisco city official Sheryl Davis made a court appearance on Thursday, facing a series of serious corruption allegations. Davis, known for her past role as head of the Human Rights Commission, was photographed in a black jacket, shielding herself from photographers while clutching a purse. She was joined by her attorney, Tony Brass, along with two other individuals whose identities remain undisclosed.
Earlier in the week, Davis and her boyfriend, James Spingola, were taken into custody. They face numerous felony charges, including accusations of misappropriating public funds and engaging in conflicts of interest. The charges stem from allegations that they redirected millions of dollars intended to support the Black community in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death.
Prosecutors claim that Davis, who oversaw the $120 million Dream Keeper Initiative aimed at assisting Black residents, instead engaged in extensive self-serving activities. The funds, according to the charges, were used for personal ventures and lavish events, such as upgraded flights, wine tastings for Black college students, and exclusive concerts and gatherings in high-profile locations like Beverly Hills, Martha’s Vineyard, and New York City.
Additionally, Davis is accused of allocating funds to public relations firms to boost her book and personal brand.
Instead, Davis allegedly engaged in a “pervasive pattern of self-dealing,” according to prosecutors. The funds went to personal projects and parties — including upgraded flights, wine tastings for black college students, concerts and more at VIP events in Beverly Hills, Martha’s Vineyard, and New York City.
She also spent money allegedly on PR firms to promote her book and brand.
About $3 million went toward Spingola’s nonprofit despite netting low scores from city evaluators.
“Ms. Davis was funneling city money to Collective Impact, while also steering how Collective Impact spent its funds, both for HRC use and for her personal benefit,” prosecutors had said, referring to the nonprofit by name.
The relationship between the two was apparently not disclosed.
Davis has been charged with 17 felonies and two misdemeanors, while Spingola faces four felony counts.
Davis’ attorney claimed that she had asked for more guidance but was given none as she transitioned into her role, The Post previously reported.
“They provided her with no guidance about transitioning into government bureaucracy and asked her to develop a robust system to help those in need,” attorney Tony Brass said. “She asked for financial supervision, she asked for internal audits and when no one responded.”
