Santos Seeks Delay in Sentencing to Pay Off Fines with Podcast Revenue
Request Denied by Prosecutors
Disgraced former congressman George Santos has asked a New York judge to delay his sentencing on federal fraud charges until the summer, citing the potential revenue from his recently launched podcast "Pants on Fire" to pay off over half a million dollars in fines. However, prosecutors have dismissed his request, calling it "extremely speculative" and criticizing the title of the podcast as a "tone-deaf and unrepentant reference to the crimes he committed."
Prosecutors Dismiss Claims of Financial Struggle
Prosecutors argue that Santos’ claims of having little more than $1,000 in liquid assets are dubious, citing his earnings from appearances on Cameo, a video-sharing website, and a new documentary. They claim he has earned over $400,000 from these appearances, in addition to the $174,000 taxpayer-funded salary he received during his 11-month stint in the U.S. House.
Santos’ Financial Situation
Santos’ lawyers claim that his podcast, launched on December 15, represents a "promising revenue stream," but prosecutors are skeptical, pointing out that the venture’s predicted financial returns are uncertain. They also question the legitimacy of his claim, stating that he has little more than $1,000 in liquid assets.
Prosecutors’ Concerns
Prosecutors are concerned that granting the delay would "create a perverse incentive structure," in which defendants who capitalize on their "notoriety and criminality" are rewarded. They argue that allowing Santos to delay sentencing to monetize his infamy would send a message that crime pays.
Conclusion
The case is set to go to trial on February 7, with prosecutors pushing for the sentencing to proceed as scheduled. The judge has yet to rule on Santos’ request for a delay. The outcome of the case remains uncertain, with the public eagerly awaiting the outcome of this high-profile fraud case.
FAQs
Q: What did George Santos do?
A: Santos pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft for duping voters, deceiving donors, and stealing the identities of nearly a dozen people, including his own family members, to fund his campaign.
Q: What is the potential sentence for Santos?
A: Santos faces a mandatory minimum two-year sentence for the identity theft charge and a maximum of 22 years in prison.
Q: How much does Santos owe in fines?
A: Santos agreed to pay nearly $580,000 in fines, including nearly $375,000 in restitution and $205,000 in forfeiture.
Q: What is the status of the case?
A: The case is set to go to trial on February 7, with the judge yet to rule on Santos’ request for a delay.
