Raised money for sick dog and ran away? FBI investigates murder case of liar George Santos in Vienna: long prison sentences for terrorist helpers

The FBI has now also become involved in the affair of Republican MP George Santos, who is under pressure because of his fake resume. The detectives are investigating allegations that Santos embezzled money he had raised for the sick dog of a Marine veteran on the Internet, according to several US media reports.

The veteran, Richard Osthoff, told American media that he had given the FBI information about the money. Among them were text messages that Osthoff exchanged with Santos.

It is about 3,000 dollars (almost 2,800 euros) that Santos raised online in 2016 for the then homeless Osthoff to pay for life-saving surgery for his terminally ill dog. According to the allegations, Santos ran off with the money instead of handing it over to Osthoff.

The pressure on Santos has increased since it became known that the 34-year-old man had fabricated numerous details on his resume. For example, he claimed to have been an “experienced investor on Wall Street.” The New York Times found that Santos was never employed by the companies mentioned.

The newspaper was also unable to verify his university degree. Santos has also been accused of misleading the public about his family history and alleged Jewish background. In an interview, the Republican admitted that he had “beautified” his resume. Santos was first elected to parliament in November’s congressional elections.

Media reported on Monday that Santos wanted to give up his two committee positions in the House of Representatives. According to recent polls, 78 percent of voters in his New York constituency think Santos should step down. So far he has ruled out a resignation. (sda/dpa)