The former campaign treasurer for U.S. Rep. George Santos has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government and implicated the indicted New York Republican in submitting fraudulent campaign finance reports. Nancy Marks, who was closely associated with Santos during his congressional campaigns, made these revelations in a federal courthouse on Long Island, where she had a long history as a political operative and bookkeeper for multiple candidates.
Marks admitted that she and Santos falsely reported in campaign finance documents that he had loaned his campaign $500,000, even though he did not provide such a loan and did not have the funds for it. This fictitious loan was intended to create the appearance of a well-funded campaign to attract other donors. Her plea agreement recommends a prison sentence of 3 1/2 to 4 years.
Marks resigned as Santos’ treasurer amid mounting questions about his campaign finances and revelations that he had fabricated much of his life story. Santos himself faces a 13-count federal indictment, including charges of money laundering and lying to Congress in a previous financial disclosure.
The investigation into Santos has also implicated Marks, who has been a significant figure in Long Island Republican politics, working as a treasurer and consultant for various candidates. Santos has previously tried to shift blame onto Marks for his unexplained finances, claiming she acted without his knowledge.
If Marks agrees to testify in Santos’ case, it could have serious consequences for the Republican congressman, who is accused of embezzlement, false financial disclosures to Congress, and fraudulent collection of unemployment benefits. Santos has pleaded not guilty to these charges and has resisted calls to resign.
Marks had notable clients aside from Santos, including former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin of New York. Besides her campaign-related responsibilities, Marks had unusual business connections with Santos. Public records indicate her involvement with a political consulting firm incorporated in Florida, which included members associated with Santos’ company and individuals formerly linked to an investment firm shut down by the Securities and Exchange Commission over alleged Ponzi scheme activities.
Marks is the second individual besides Santos to face charges related to the campaign. In August, a former Santos fundraiser, Sam Miele, was indicted for impersonating the then-chief of staff to GOP Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California. Miele pleaded not guilty to the charges.
By FCCT Editorial Team freeslots dinogame telegram营销
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