Joe Canciamilla for Contra Costa County Clerk/Recorder 2014/2018, Friends of Joe Canciamilla for Judge 2012/2014, and Joseph Canciamilla

Misuse of Campaign Funds

Fine: $150,000

FPPC No. 17/146

This matter arose from an audit performed by the Franchise Tax Board’s Political Reform Audit Program. Joseph Canciamilla is the former Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters, as well as a former candidate for Contra Costa County Superior Court Judge. Joe Canciamilla for Contra Costa County Clerk/Recorder 2014/2018 and Joe Canciamilla for Judge 2012/2014 are his candidate-controlled committees. In 2011, 2014, and 2015, Canciamilla used campaign funds for personal purposes which were unrelated to a political, legislative, or governmental purpose, in violation of Government Code Sections 89510, subdivision (b), 89512, and 89513, subdivision (a) (15 counts). From 2011 through 2019, this activity was concealed on campaign statements by other reporting violations including non-reporting and the over-statement of available cash on hand, in violation of Government Code Section 84211 (14 counts). Also, in 2011 Canciamilla and his judge committee commingled campaign funds with personal funds, in violation of Government Code Section 84307 (1 count). 

Supporting Documents

How to File a Complaint

Anyone who suspects a violation of the Act should file a sworn complaint with the Enforcement Division.