A former city councillor in Lodi, a city of about 70,000 in California’s San Joaquin County, has been sentenced to three years in county jail for his role in a 2020 election fraud scheme.
Shakir Khan, who pleaded no contest in January 2024 to 71 felonies and six misdemeanours, was also given an eight-year state prison sentence that is stayed, meaning it could be imposed if he violates the terms of his mandatory supervision. One year of his county jail sentence is suspended.
The charges stemmed from the 2020 local election, when investigators found 41 completed mail-in ballots at Khan’s home. Authorities also discovered that 23 voters were registered at his address, while his email and phone number had been used to register 47 others.
It is reported that Khan faced separate legal proceedings related to illegal gambling, tax evasion, and fraud against the state’s Employment Development Department. Following admissions in those cases, he forfeited around $77,000 in cash and $383,000 in property, which were returned to San Joaquin County’s general funds.
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas said the sentence reflected the seriousness with which authorities treat attempts to manipulate the electoral process.
“Accountability includes honouring the plea and fulfilling the terms of supervision. If Mr Khan fails to comply, the full consequences of his sentence will be enforced.”
In a statement to ABC10, Khan said he was grateful for the court’s decision allowing him to remain out of custody while fulfilling restitution obligations.
“This has been a long and transformative journey, during which I have deeply reflected on what truly matters—my loved ones and my responsibilities. I am prepared to put this chapter behind me and move forward with integrity.”
It is reported that the case also involved disputes over Khan’s departure from the Lodi City Council. Jailhouse body camera footage showed him signing a resignation note hours after his arrest, which he later said was signed under pressure.
The sentencing concludes a multi-year investigation into Khan’s conduct as an elected official, highlighting the county’s efforts to uphold electoral integrity in local governance.
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