Steve Bannon, former chief strategist to Donald Trump, pleaded guilty Tuesday to a felony fraud charge in New York, closing the curtain on his role in the “We Build The Wall” fundraising scandal. The deal, struck with Manhattan prosecutors, allows Bannon to dodge jail time but bars him from handling New York charities’ finances ever again.
Bannon, facing Justice April Newbauer, admitted to deceiving donors who believed their contributions would construct a border wall. The plea resolves charges brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, whose office pursued the case despite Trump having pardoned Bannon’s federal charges in 2021.
The Price of a Plea Deal
In exchange for his guilty plea, Bannon agreed to strict conditions: no appeals, no future leadership in New York charities, and a vow not to exploit WeBuildTheWall Inc. data.
“I will impose the promised sentence of a three-year conditional discharge,” said Justice Newbauer, making it clear that any future offense could upend the deal. Prosecutors opted against seeking restitution, pointing to millions already recovered in the federal convictions of Bannon’s alleged co-conspirators.
Bannon’s Firebrand Response
Silent in court, Bannon unleashed his fury outside. Flanked by supporters, he railed against Bragg and New York Attorney General Letitia James, who has led multiple cases against Trump and his allies.
