Texas Man Sentenced for Scheme Targeting George Santos and Other High-Profile Defendants
Hector Medina, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud and identity theft, attempted to extort nearly $1 million by falsely offering to erase evidence in criminal cases.
- Hector Medina, a Texas man, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for attempting to defraud former Rep. George Santos and other public figures.
- Medina falsely claimed he could eliminate evidence and dismiss charges in exchange for large sums, targeting individuals like Santos and actor Danny Masterson.
- Using the alias 'Michael Soto,' Medina sought $900,000 from Santos, who initially believed the scheme might be legitimate.
- Prosecutors revealed Medina devised the scheme to repay gambling debts and admitted to targeting vulnerable individuals facing legal troubles.
- The judge in the case criticized Santos for not appearing in court and labeled his behavior 'cowardly,' highlighting the irony of both men facing charges for similar crimes.
Gothamist 
Associated Press 