Defendants' plea deal in Sacramento wire fraud case mentions possible testimony

Sean McCluskie, a former chief of staff to Xavier Becerra, and Sacramento lobbyist Greg Campbell - indicted for wire fraud in the misuse of $250,000 in campaign funds -- are cooperating with federal authorities, a source close to the case told the Daily Journal. Both McCluskie's and Campbell's plea agreements mention the possibility of them giving evidence to law enforcement, a grand jury or a tribunal.

Campbell and McCluskie pleaded guilty to operating a scheme, along with Gov. Gavin Newsom's former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, that transferred money from dormant campaign accounts to a personal account controlled by McCluskie.

Williamson has not admitted any crime and is presumed innocent. Newsom's office said he is not involved in the case or the investigation.

Campbell pleaded guilty Thursday, while McCluskie entered his plea Nov. 20. In their respective plea agreements, which were obtained by the Daily Journal, Campbell and McCluskie agreed that any future testimony they give related to the case can be used against them should they back out of the plea deal.

Prosecutors agreed to recommend that both receive sentences on the lower end of what's allowed and reduced offense levels. They also agreed not to bring further charges related to the scheme against the two.