Disgraced Ex-U.S. Congressman George Santos pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft charges, saying ambition drove him to make unethical decisions.
“I understand there are legal consequences for my actions and I accept them fully,” a tearful Santos told reporters outside the federal courthouse in Central Islip, N.Y. on Aug. 19.
Santos was originally charged with 23 counts, stemming from two indictments, but prosecutors dismissed all but two charges — wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. He admitted in court to falsely claiming unemployment benefits and using campaign donations for personal luxuries.
Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 7 and Santos could face up to six years in prison.
Santos admitted he failed his constituents in New York’s Third Congressional District, apologized for his actions, and vowed to become a better person.
“Moving forward, I am dedicated to making amends for the wrongs I have committed,” he said.
The first out gay Republican elected to Congress, Santos, 36, was expelled by his peers last December after it was discovered he had fabricated much of his résumé. His lies included losing his mother in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, having four employees killed at the Pulse Nightclub massacre, coming from Jewish heritage and being a star volleyball player in college.
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