George Santos Reports to Prison After Fraud Conviction
Former Congressman George Santos has begun his prison sentence after being convicted on federal corruption charges. The disgraced ex-Long Island representative, whose lies led to his expulsion from Congress, is serving a sentence of over seven years.
Santos, who recently turned 37, posted a farewell message on social media before reporting to federal custody. In a theatrical post on X, he wrote, "Well, darlings… The curtain falls, the spotlight dims, and the rhinestones are packed. From the halls of Congress to the chaos of cable news what a ride it’s been!" He thanked his supporters and critics alike.
Santos was sentenced to 87 months in prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. In addition to his prison sentence, he was ordered to pay nearly $374,000 in restitution and forfeit over $205,000 in fraud proceeds.
Details of the Case
The investigation into Santos involved campaign finance fraud, donor identity theft, and false COVID-era unemployment claims. U.S. Attorney John J. Durham described the sentence as "judgment day" for Santos and justice for his victims. Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly stated that Santos "traded in his integrity for designer clothes and a luxury lifestyle."
Santos is one of only a handful of members of the House of Representatives to have been expelled. His lawyer had requested a sentence of 2 years, while prosecutors argued for the maximum sentence of 87 months.
The location of Santos' prison sentence has not been disclosed, and it remains unclear whether he sought a pardon from President Trump.