George Santos Sentenced to Over 7 Years for Federal Fraud Charges

• Apr 25, 2025

Former U.S. Representative George Santos was sentenced on Friday to more than seven years in prison on federal fraud and identity theft charges. The sentencing took place just before noon in Central Islip, Long Island, where a judge handed Santos the maximum sentence of 87 months.

Federal prosecutors accused Santos of lying about his background to deceive voters and donors in New York’s 3rd Congressional District. He originally faced nearly a dozen criminal charges but pleaded guilty to two counts in August.

U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, John Durham, said Santos' crimes were an "affront to our electoral process" and stressed that the former congressman would be punished for betraying voters, donors, and government institutions. Durham told reporters the sentence proves such fraudulent behavior will not be tolerated.

Santos spoke briefly to CBS News by phone while on his way to court, saying he had no expectations about the sentence and was ready for any outcome. When he arrived, he appeared somber, hugging supporters before entering the courthouse.

Inside, Santos read a statement through tears, apologizing to the people he betrayed. He admitted that he shattered public trust and said he could not change the past but asked the judge for a balanced sentence, hoping to make amends.

Ahead of the sentencing, Santos had asked for leniency, admitting that his actions cost him his congressional seat, his career, and his reputation. However, the Department of Justice argued he showed little genuine remorse, pointing to his recent social media activity.

Santos was elected in 2022 during the Republican "red wave," helping the party gain control of the House. However, investigations soon uncovered numerous lies about his background, leading to his indictment in May 2023 and further charges later that year. A scathing House Ethics Committee report detailed his misconduct, and he was expelled from Congress, becoming only the sixth member in history to be removed.

Prosecutors revealed that Santos faked his financial disclosures, created a false biography, stole identities, committed credit card fraud, and lied to receive unemployment benefits. He also misused campaign funds for personal gain and deceived donors through fake nonprofits.

As part of his plea deal, Santos agreed to pay over $575,000 in restitution and forfeiture. It is still unclear when he will officially report to prison.