http://www.examiner.com/x-6583-Thornton-Examiner~y2009m6d18-Wellknown-restauranteur-Dan-Tang-charged-in-federal-drug-caseWell-known restauranteur Dan Tang charged in federal drug case
June 18, 9:23 PM
Since the mid-1980s, Heaven Dragon Chinese restaurant in Thornton has been a fan favorite. Those who have grown up in the area know owner Dan Tang, 48, as a familiar face. His smile, energy and demeanor are legendary among north-metro Denver natives. Tang even reached national fame in 2002 and 2004 when he served President George W. Bush and his staff during the President’s visit to Denver.
Today, Tang is in the news for a far different reason: Federal charges of money laundering in connection with a large-scale marijuana-growing operation. Tang surrendered to U.S. Marshals at a federal court where he was advised of the charges against him and later released on bond. He is expected back in federal court next month.
Tang was officially charged with one count of felony money laundering, stemming from an investigation that suggests Tang funded the marijuana-growing operation and laundered the money through his restaurant. According to an affidavit in the case, Tang allegedly purchased all of the homes used in the growing operation. snip
Tang has been active in the political climate in recent years, donating large sums of money to the Republican Party and hosting fundraisers for various political candidates. The front foyer of his restaurant displays large framed photographs of Tang with politicians such as President Bush, Rudy Giuliani and Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper and other well-known local and national political figures.