Former Rep. George Santos (R‑NY), who was expelled from the House earlier this year, pleaded guilty to federal charges of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in New York on Monday.
A judge reportedly suggested Santos could face a six-to-eight year sentence. The Justice Department (DOJ) noted Santos will also pay restitution of $373,749.97 and forfeiture of $205,002.97.
Sentencing is scheduled to take place on February 7.
“I deeply regret my conduct and the harm it has caused and accept full responsibility for my actions,” Santos said in court, according to USA Today.
Federal prosecutors unveiled 23 charges against Santos last year, including aggravated identity theft, wire fraud, and conspiracy stemming back to his 2022 campaign.
Santos had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The plea deal, which the DOJ said brings a mandatory two-year minimum sentence of imprisonment and a maximum of 22 years …