Angry protesters called Congressman George Santos a “dog killer” on Friday as the Republican made an appearance in Long Island federal court, his first hearing since pleading not guilty last month to a 13-count indictment related to fraud and money laundering charges.
The chants were in reference to an alleged scandal in which the representative allegedly fled with more than $3,000 raised at a fundraiser to save a disabled US Navy veteran’s service dog, one of many alleged acts of deception Santos did while working for his seat in Congress.
The first-term congressman has denied knowing about veteran Richard Osthoff or his dog, calling the allegations “false.”
As Mr. Santos left the court, Mr. Osthoff, who was in the crowd, shouted out, “You killed Sapphire, George. You killed my dog.
Others in the crowd reportedly sung“Resignation” and “Shame” at the step of the Republican.
Santos was in court for a conference on the status of the federal case against him, where he faces 13 different charges, including fraud, money laundering and theft of public funds.
Prosecutors accuse the New York representative of misleading supporters and donors into giving him money, which he allegedly used for personal expenses that financed a lavish lifestyle.
They also allege that he deceptively obtained unemployment benefits and lied about his personal finances while campaigning for the House of Representatives.
This is breaking news and will be updated with new information..
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