Trump DOJ Slams Santos's 'Unrepentant' Social Media Blitz

Federal prosecutors are pushing for a substantial prison sentence for former Representative George Santos, arguing his recent social media activity demonstrates a continued lack of remorse for the 23 federal fraud charges he pleaded guilty to last August. The charges stem from allegations of stealing unemployment benefits and misusing donor credit card information for personal expenses.

In a court filing made public Thursday, the Department of Justice highlighted a series of posts made by Santos, characterizing them as “belligerent” and indicative of an ongoing attempt to deflect responsibility. CBS News correspondent Scott MacFarlane shared details of the filing on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The DOJ filing directly contradicts claims made by Santos’s attorneys who argued for leniency, asserting that his actions demonstrate he remains “unrepentant.” Prosecutors specifically pointed to a “social media blitz” where Santos attacks the DOJ and blames others for his legal troubles. They argue this behavior is the opposite of “genuine remorse.”

Examples cited include a post from April 4 where Santos stated the DOJ’s efforts would “NEVER break my spirit,” and another from April 5 accusing the department of a relentless pursuit since December 2022, claiming they are hindering his ability to earn income. The DOJ dismissed these posts as a “bizarre missive portraying himself as a victim of prosecutorial overreach and selective prosecution.”

This aggressive defense strategy, while perhaps aimed at public opinion, appears to be backfiring with the prosecution. It’s a risky move for a defendant already facing a significant potential sentence. While defendants certainly have the right to express themselves, Santos’s public posture seems calculated to antagonize those who will ultimately determine his fate.

Santos is scheduled to be sentenced on April 25. The DOJ is clearly signaling that his lack of accountability will be a key factor in their sentencing recommendation, and a significant prison term is likely if this assessment holds true.