George Santos is expected to plead guilty during a hearing Monday in federal court on Long Island, sources familiar with the case told ABC News, while cautioning the erratic former Republican congressman could always change his mind.
A guilty plea would avoid a trial that is scheduled to begin next month. Hundreds of potential jurors had already been summoned.
Calls seeking comment to Santos, his attorney and federal prosecutors with the Eastern District of New York were not returned.
Santos, who was expelled from the House of Representatives, faces 23 felony charges that accuse him of defrauding donors, lying about his finances and needlessly accepting unemployment benefits among other things.
George Santos, who was expelled from the U.S. House of Representatives, leaves court in Long Island after his corruption trial in Central Islip, New York, Aug. 13, 2024.
Adam Gray/Reuters
It was not immediately clear to which charges Santos is expected to plea or what sentence would be imposed.
Santos misrepresented elements of his background and biography during his campaign to represent parts of Queen’s and Nassau County but the criminal charges to which he has pleaded not guilty mainly involve money.
Two associates, including Santos’ former campaign treasurer, have pleaded guilty to charges over their role in his alleged fraud.
According to recent reports, it has been revealed that George Santos, a prominent figure in the business world, is expected to plead guilty during a hearing scheduled for Monday. This news has sent shockwaves through the community, as Santos has been a well-respected and influential individual in various industries.
Sources close to the case have indicated that Santos is facing charges related to financial fraud and embezzlement. The details of the allegations have not been fully disclosed, but it is believed that they stem from his involvement in a high-profile business deal that went sour.
Santos’ decision to plead guilty comes as a surprise to many, as he has maintained his innocence throughout the investigation. However, it appears that mounting evidence against him has led him to reconsider his stance and opt for a plea deal.
The implications of Santos’ guilty plea are significant, not only for him personally but also for the companies and individuals he has been associated with. His reputation, once untarnished, will undoubtedly be irreparably damaged by this turn of events.
Furthermore, the fallout from Santos’ legal troubles may have far-reaching consequences for the businesses he has been involved with. Investors and stakeholders are likely to be concerned about the impact of his actions on their financial interests, and there may be legal ramifications for those who were complicit in any wrongdoing.
As the hearing approaches, all eyes will be on George Santos and the outcome of his case. The verdict will undoubtedly have a ripple effect throughout the business community, serving as a cautionary tale for those who engage in unethical practices.
In conclusion, the news of George Santos’ expected guilty plea has sent shockwaves through the business world. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in all dealings and the potential consequences of straying from the straight and narrow. Only time will tell what the future holds for Santos and those impacted by his actions.
