Former Congress member George Santos, whose elaborate fabrications regarding his personal background ultimately led to his removal from the U.S. House, is scheduled to face sentencing on Friday morning in connection with his federal fraud charges.
In August, Santos admitted to participating in a multifaceted scheme involving campaign finance violations, fraudulently collecting unemployment benefits during the Covid-19 pandemic, and providing false information on financial disclosure statements required by the House.
As part of a plea agreement with prosecutors in the U.S. District Court for Long Island, Santos pleaded guilty to one count each of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. He has also committed to pay restitution and forfeiture totaling approximately $580,000.
Santos is requesting that Judge Joanna Seybert impose the mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison, contending that he has acknowledged his wrongdoing and has cooperated fully with investigators.
Conversely, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York has advocated for an 87-month sentence, arguing that this is a just response to Santos’ actions.
In a recent filing, prosecutors indicated that Santos’ defiant social media activity demonstrates a lack of remorse for his crimes, which they believe should be taken into account during sentencing.
This is developing news. Please check back for updates.
