U.S. Republican Rep. George Santos arrested on fraud, money laundering charges

Republican Representative George Santos from New York’s third congressional district, who had previously been exposed for lying about his personal and professional background, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with wire fraud, money laundering, theft of public funds, and making false statements to Congress. Prosecutors allege that Santos induced supporters to donate to a company under false pretenses and used the money on designer clothes and car payments. He is also accused of lying about his finances on congressional disclosure forms and previously receiving unemployment benefits while employed. Santos turned himself in and is expected to appear in court. Some are calling for him to step down from his position. However, House Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy stated that in America, individuals are innocent until proven guilty.