Who bailed out George Santos? Court documents show father Gercino dos Santos Jr., aunt Elma Preven posted $500k bond
CENTRAL ISLIP, N.Y. -- Congressman George Santos' father Gercino dos Santos Jr. and his aunt Elma Preven were the ones who posted his $500,000 bond after he was indicted on federal charges last month, according to court documents.
When Santos walked out of federal court on Long Island in May after being charged with fraud, money laundering and other alleged crimes, he vowed, "I'm gonna fight the witch hunt, I'm gonna take care of clearing my name."
- Web Extra: Click here to read the redacted documents
In the weeks that followed, Santos also vowed - with fervor so intense his lawyers said he'd rather go to jail - that he would prevent the disclosure of who bailed him out so he could continue working in Congress.
Santos lost that battle. Unsealed court documents revealed dos Santos and Preven promised they would make sure he shows up in court.
"My whole thing around keeping the sureties secret was for their safety, because of the death threats I get. I can handle that, I ran for public office. They did not, they're private citizens," said Santos.
What apparently rankled the congressman were questions about whether his selection of people who put up his bail violated House ethics rules.
Santos' lawyer said ethics rules allow members to receive gifts or favors from immediate relatives, including extended family and in-laws.
The court documents show Santos' family members signed an unsecured bond. They did not have to put up property or cash, but agreed to make sure he shows up in court.
Late Thursday, Santos said he and his family "made peace" with the judge's decision to release the names.
"Now I pray that the judge is correct and no harm comes to them," said Santos, who begged reporters not to disturb or harass his family for "cheap reporting."
The bail agreement allows Santos to travel between New York and Washington, D.C. He must get permission in advance for other trips, including out-of-town fundraisers.
Santos is due in court on June 30.
