Former Congressman George Santos Granted Delay in Sentencing
A New York judge has granted disgraced former congressman George Santos a few months’ freedom to come up with more than half a million dollars in court fines, including from work on his new podcast.
Background
Santos, a Republican, pleaded guilty this summer to federal fraud and identity theft charges. He was facing a mandatory minimum two-year sentence and up to 22 years in prison.
Judge’s Ruling
U.S. District Court Judge Joanna Seybert set the new court date for April 25, which is about three months less than Santos sought. The judge called the short adjournment a “one-time courtesy” granted in the interest of justice.
Santos’ Plea Deal
Santos admitted to duping voters, deceiving donors, and stealing the identities of nearly a dozen people, including his own family members, to make donations to his congressional campaign. He agreed to pay nearly $375,000 in restitution and $205,000 in forfeiture.
Podcast Income
In a letter to the judge, Santos’ lawyers said the 36-year-old needs more time to build his newly launched podcast “Pants on Fire” in order to pay off the roughly $580,000 in fines. Prosecutors opposed the delay, dismissing Santos’ promises of a forthcoming windfall as “extremely speculative.”
Prosecutors’ Concerns
Prosecutors cast doubt on Santos’ claim of having little more than $1,000 in liquid assets, arguing he’s earned more than $800,000 from appearances on the video-sharing website Cameo and from a new documentary since he was expelled from Congress in 2023.
Lawyers’ Response
Santos’ lawyers called prosecutors’ financial critiques “false and misleading” and said their request to buy Santos more time to “muster a substantial lump-sum payment” and prepare for sentencing was “hardly extraordinary.”
Conclusion
The delay in Santos’ sentencing allows him to continue working on his podcast and attempting to pay off his court fines. However, it remains to be seen whether he will be able to come up with the necessary funds. The case is ongoing, and Santos is still facing a significant amount of time in prison.
FAQs
Q: What did George Santos plead guilty to?
A: Santos pleaded guilty to federal fraud and identity theft charges.
Q: What is the total amount of fines Santos owes?
A: Santos owes roughly $580,000 in fines.
Q: How much time is Santos facing in prison?
A: Santos is facing a mandatory minimum two-year sentence and up to 22 years in prison.
Q: What is the name of Santos’ new podcast?
A: The name of Santos’ new podcast is “Pants on Fire”.
Q: When is Santos’ new sentencing date?
A: Santos’ new sentencing date is April 25.
