NEW YORK (AP) – Former U.S. Rep. George Santos has reported to a federal prison in New Jersey to begin serving a seven-year sentence for fraud charges that led to his ousting from Congress.
Santos, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud and identity theft, will serve his time at the Federal Correctional Institution in Fairton, Cumberland County.
The backstory:
Santos, a Long Island Republican, was convicted of deceiving donors and stealing identities to fund his congressional campaign.
Despite his claims of being a successful business owner, Santos fabricated much of his life story, leading to congressional and criminal inquiries. He was elected in 2022 but served less than a year before being expelled from the House.
George Santos, former Representative from New York, center, arrives at federal court in Central Islip, New York, US, on Friday, April 25, 2025. (Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Santos behind bars
What’s next:
Santos will serve his sentence in a minimum-security camp at Fairton, which also houses a medium-security prison.
He described the camp as a “big upgrade” from his initial assignment. Notable inmates at Fairton include Lamor Miller-Whitehead, a Brooklyn preacher sentenced for fraud.
What they’re saying:
Before reporting to prison, Santos hosted a farewell party on social media, reflecting on his tumultuous political career.
“Well, darlings… The curtain falls, the spotlight dims, and the rhinestones are packed. From the halls of Congress to the chaos of cable news what a ride it’s been! Was it messy? Always. Glamorous? Occasionally. Honest? I tried… most days. To my supporters: You made this wild political cabaret worth it. To my critics: Thanks for the free press,” he tweeted before going to prison, signing off as “fabulously yours.”
He expressed fears about life behind bars, describing his sentence as a “death sentence” and asserting he is not suicidal or depressed. Santos continues to host a podcast and sell personalized video messages, while hoping for clemency from President Donald Trump.