…By Judah Olanisebee for TDPel Media.
A judge has decided to unseal the identities of the individuals who paid the $500,000 pretrial bond for New York congressman George Santos.
US Magistrate Judge Anne Y. Shields ruled that the bond suretors’ names would be made public at noon on Friday.
The judge’s order, along with related filings, has been kept under seal to allow Santos time to appeal the decision before the deadline.
Santos, who pleaded not guilty to a 13-count indictment alleging fraud, donor deception, campaign theft, false claims of wealth, and unemployment benefits fraud, had his attorney, Joseph Murray, argue against revealing the bond suretors’ names.
Murray expressed concerns about the potential consequences the suretors could face if their identities were disclosed publicly, including job loss and physical harm.
He requested that the judge allow them to withdraw as cosigners if she decided to unseal their names.
Murray emphasized the threatening and harassing calls and messages that Santos, himself, and his staff have been receiving, including death threats.
He shared his fears that Santos’ critics were eagerly waiting to target the individuals supporting his release.
The attorney stated that their health, safety, and well-being were at risk.
In response to the request from news outlets to release the bond suretors’ names, a lawyer representing the media argued for the importance of transparency in the proceedings.
The lawyer highlighted the significant public interest in the case, particularly regarding the involvement of individuals who had committed substantial sums of money to ensure Santos’ liberty.
The potential for political influence due to Santos’ elected position and dependence on the suretors was also emphasized.
Apart from media outlets, the House Ethics Committee also requested Santos to identify the individuals who cosigned his bond.
Murray explained that while three cosigners were initially arranged, one backed out, and the other two failed to appear at the arraignment.
As a result, alternative confidential arrangements were made to secure Santos’ release.
Santos’ bond is unsecured, meaning his cosigners did not have to provide upfront money.
However, they could be held liable for the full amount if Santos violates the conditions of his release or fails to appear in court.
Despite calls for his resignation, Santos has refused to step down and remains committed to seeking a second term in office.