US President Donald Trump has commuted the sentence of George Santos, a former Republican congressman serving seven years in prison for fraud and identity theft.
In a post on social media, Trump stated that Santos has been horribly mistreated, adding, Therefore, I just signed a Commutation, releasing George Santos from prison, IMMEDIATELY. Good luck George, have a great life!.
The former lawmaker was expelled from Congress in 2023, becoming only the sixth person in US history to lose their seat over ethical violations.
Santos had admitted to appropriating the identities of 11 people, including family members, while serving his sentence at a minimum-security facility in New Jersey. Reports indicate he was released late Friday night.
Following Trump's announcement, one of Santos's lawyers, Joseph Murray, proclaimed, God bless President Donald J Trump, reflecting the gratitude from Santos's legal team.
During his sentencing in April, a judge remarked, You got elected with your words, most of which were lies, highlighting Santos's history of deception during his congressional run.
Prosecutors detailed that Santos had misused campaign funds to elevate his lifestyle while lying about his qualifications, including a fabricated university degree.
Trump's statement also aimed at a Democratic senator, Richard Blumenthal, whom he accused of dishonesty regarding his military service, asserting that Santos's actions could be viewed as trivial in comparison.
Santos's political career dramatically unraveled after investigations revealed various lies about his background, leading to serious legal consequences and his eventual expulsion.
Earlier this week, Santos had appealed to Trump in an open letter, expressing a desire for forgiveness and a chance to reconnect with family and community after expressing regret for his past actions.
Trump has also previously pardoned other Republican lawmakers guilty of similar charges, indicating a pattern of political leniency towards party members.
