Prosecutors say a San Francisco homeless nonprofit paid Henry Davis, the son of former Human Rights Commission head Sheryl Davis, $10,000 for just five slides and answers for a panel his mother moderated.
The payments came as Davis signed city contracts worth millions to the nonprofit, raising conflict-of-interest concerns.
Sheryl Davis, who led the Dream Keeper Initiative, a $120 million program for Black communities, faces 17 felony and 2 misdemeanor charges for alleged corruption and self-dealing.
The nonprofit, Homeless Children’s Network, reportedly paid Davis’ son $140,000 over less than three years for research services.
Prosecutors say some payments were deposited into an account jointly held by mother and son.
The investigation also involves Davis’ partner, James Spingola, who allegedly used his nonprofit, Collective Impact, to fund expensive events and VIP experiences.
High-profile payments included $10,000 to Sonya Curry, $27,000 to singer Goapele, $25,000 to D-Nice, and $25,000 to Emily King.
Collective Impact reportedly received $8.5 million in city grants between 2021 and 2024.
Prosecutors allege the arrangement created “the appearance of impropriety,” though Henry Davis is not accused of wrongdoing.
Records from the nonprofit were reportedly incomplete, leaving unclear how much of the payments came directly from city funds.
Davis was previously audited for spending department money on lavish events, including a $2.1 million Philadelphia party, gala tickets, and venue rentals.
The case highlights ongoing scrutiny over the management of city funds and nonprofit payments linked to public officials.