Steve Bannon Pleads Guilty to Border Wall Fraud, Avoids Jail Under Plea Deal
Manhattan, New York – Former White House strategist Steve Bannon entered a guilty plea on Tuesday in a Manhattan criminal courtroom, acknowledging his role in defrauding donors who contributed to the construction of a wall at the southern U.S. border.
The Charges and Scheme
Bannon was charged with participating in a conspiracy to divert hundreds of thousands of dollars from the non-profit organization, We Build the Wall, to the organization’s president, Brian Kolfage. Prosecutors alleged that Kolfage, who claimed he was not receiving any compensation, received over $250,000 in secret salary payments.
Bannon, who served as chairman of We Build the Wall’s advisory board, allegedly facilitated the transfer of funds through third-party entities, including a non-profit he controlled.
The Plea Deal
Under a plea deal negotiated with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, Bannon pleaded guilty to one count of third-degree conspiracy to commit fraud. In exchange, Bragg agreed to recommend that Bannon avoid jail or prison time if he meets specific conditions, including a three-year prohibition on fundraising for any charitable organization with assets in New York state.
If Bannon violates the terms of the plea deal, he could face a state prison sentence ranging from one year to four years.
Prosecutor’s Statement
In a statement, District Attorney Bragg emphasized the importance of protecting New York’s charities and charitable giving from fraud. He stated that New York has a vital interest in eradicating fraud from its markets, corporations, and charities.
Defense Attorney’s Statement
Bannon’s defense lawyer, Arthur Aidala, expressed relief that his client could put the matter behind him and focus on his other work. However, he criticized the proceedings, stating that Bannon could not receive a fair trial in New York County.
Federal Pardon and Previous Conviction
Bannon had previously received a presidential pardon from former President Donald Trump for similar federal charges related to the We Build the Wall scheme. However, presidential pardons do not extend to state charges like those brought against Bannon in New York.
Bannon was also recently released from federal prison after serving a four-month sentence for defying a subpoena from the House committee investigating the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.
Border Wall Construction
During Trump’s first term, his administration constructed approximately 458 miles of a "border wall system," according to U.S. News. However, much of the length reportedly already had some form of barrier in place. The total length of the U.S.-Mexico border is nearly 2,000 miles.
Implications
The plea deal reached in the We Build the Wall case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and prosecutors to combat fraud and protect charities and donors from exploitation. It also sends a strong message that individuals who engage in such schemes, even high-profile figures like Bannon, will be held accountable for their actions.
