Judge rules to release names of Rep. Santos bond cosigners, will stay secret as appeal considered

In a recent development, a federal magistrate has ruled to disclose the names of the individuals who cosigned Rep. George Santos’ $500,000 release bond. However, for the time being, the names will remain confidential as Santos’ lawyer intends to appeal the decision.

The ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge Anne Shields followed a statement from Santos’ attorney, stating that the New York Republican would rather face imprisonment than reveal the identities of his cosigners, whose support enabled his release before trial.

This decision is considered a victory for various news organizations, including The Big Big News and The New York Times, which requested the unsealing of the names, citing the importance of utmost transparency.

Joseph Murray, Santos’ lawyer, pleaded with Judge Shields to maintain the confidentiality of the names, expressing concerns about potential distress that the cosigners might endure. He highlighted the risks of job loss and physical harm they could face if publicly identified.

Murray revealed that both he and Santos, along with Santos’ staff, have received threatening and harassing calls and messages, including death threats. He expressed apprehension that Santos’ critics are eagerly awaiting an opportunity to target the individuals supporting his release.

“My client would prefer to be detained before trial than subject these suretors to the inevitable consequences,” Murray emphasized.

Judge Shields granted Murray until 12 p.m. on Friday to file an appeal. A request for comment from Murray was made but remained unanswered at the time of this report.

Santos, 34, serves as the representative for parts of Queens and Long Island. He pleaded not guilty on May 10 to charges of defrauding donors, misappropriating campaign funds, providing false information to Congress about his wealth, and fraudulently obtaining unemployment benefits.

During Santos’ arraignment, Shields had agreed, at the request of Murray, to keep the names of the cosigners out of the public court record. However, her latest ruling overturns that decision.

Despite calls for his resignation, Santos has steadfastly refused and maintains his intention to run for a second term. He is scheduled to appear in court again on June 30.

It is worth noting that Santos’ bond is unsecured, meaning that the cosigners did not have to provide any upfront payment. However, they could be held liable for the full amount if Santos violates his release conditions or fails to appear in court.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about cosigners’ identities

More about cosigners’ identities

• Article: Judge rules to release names of Rep. Santos bond cosigners
• Article: Rep. Santos pleads not guilty to charges
• Article: News outlets petition to unseal cosigners’ names
• Article: Concerns raised by Santos’ lawyer over revealing cosigners’ identities
• Article: Santos’ upcoming court proceedings and charges
• Article: Explanation of unsecured bond in Santos’ case