George Santos Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft

Former Republican congressman George Santos has been sentenced to more than seven years in prison for wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The 36-year-old pleaded guilty to the federal charges in New York court last August.

Santos was handed an 87-month prison term, as well as ordered to pay at least $374,000 in restitution. U.S. District Court Judge Joanna Seybert sentenced Santos, saying, “You got elected with your words, most of which were lies.”

The sentencing marks the final step in the downfall of the novice New York politician, who was expelled from Congress after the fraud case alleged that he lied about his background and misused campaign funds to finance his lifestyle. Santos reportedly apologized for his actions while crying in court, stating, “I cannot rewrite the past, but I can control the road ahead.”

Prosecutors had asked for 87 months in prison. In contrast, Santos's attorneys had requested he serve two years, the minimum sentence for aggravated identity theft.

The federal government alleged Santos laundered campaign funds to pay for personal expenses, including Botox and OnlyFans subscriptions, illegally claimed unemployment benefits while employed, and lied to the Federal Election Commission. Prosecutors said he charged over $44,000 to his campaign using credit cards belonging to contributors who were unaware they were being defrauded.

Santos's downfall began after a New York Times investigation in 2022 revealed the freshman congressman had lied about his CV. He was eventually charged with 23 federal felony crimes and became the first member of Congress to be expelled in more than 20 years.

Santos will report to prison on July 25.