Indictment of Former Campaign Fundraiser for Rep. Santos for Alleged Impersonation of Top House Aide

Former Campaign Fundraiser Indicted for Impersonating High-Ranking Aide

Samuel Miele, a former campaign fundraiser for U.S. Rep. George Santos, has been indicted for impersonating a high-ranking aide in the House of Representatives. He allegedly solicited potential contributions from more than a dozen donors using this false identity. Miele has been charged with four counts of wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The indictment was unsealed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York.

Not Guilty Plea and Confidence in Innocence

Mr. Miele, who is facing charges, has pleaded not guilty according to his attorney, Kevin Marino. The attorney expressed confidence in his client's innocence and stated that they are looking forward to a speedy trial to prove his vindication. Miele was arraigned in federal court in Brooklyn and has been released on $150,000 bail.

Fraudulent Fundraising Solicitations Allegations

In a recent indictment, it is alleged that a person named Miele used a fake email address and the name of a former high-ranking aide to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to solicit campaign funding for a candidate named Santos. Miele allegedly earned a 15% commission on each donation received. The indictment did not mention the name of the aide, but multiple news outlets have identified the person as Dan Meyer, who recently retired after serving as McCarthy's chief of staff for four years.

Connection Between Miele's Case and Charges Against Santos

In a recent development, prosecutors have informed two judges in the Eastern District Court that there may be a connection between Miele's criminal case and campaign-related charges filed against Santos earlier this year. Santos, a freshman congressman, was charged with multiple counts including wire fraud, money laundering, theft of public funds, and making false statements to the House of Representatives. This new information suggests a potential link between the two cases.

Lawmaker Accused of Misusing Campaign Funds

A lawmaker is facing potential prison time after being accused of misusing campaign funds. The lawmaker has pleaded not guilty to the charges. It is alleged that he told donors the funds would be used for his campaign, but instead used the money for personal expenses such as buying designer clothes and paying off credit card debt.

Division Among House Leaders

House leaders are currently divided on whether to force Santos to resign from his elected position. However, a few New York Republicans have expressed support for a House Democrat-led resolution to censure him. Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) has criticized McCarthy for allowing Santos to continue serving despite facing criminal charges.

Criticism of McCarthy's Actions

The article discusses a federal indictment against George Santos, who allegedly paid someone to impersonate Kevin McCarthy's chief of staff in order to raise money. Despite this, McCarthy, a Republican lawmaker, is said to be protecting Santos. The article also mentions that other Republican lawmakers are waiting for the legal process to unfold before considering any actions such as expulsion. The author criticizes McCarthy for his actions, calling them "pathetic and shameful."