FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WSVN) — A former Broward Teachers Union president convicted of stealing from the union is expected to begin his prison sentence Friday.
Former Broward County Teachers Union President Pat Santeramo surrendered to a judge Friday. He will be spending at least five years in a state prison.
The 68-year-old showed up in court Friday after he was convicted of stealing over $165,000 from the Broward County Teachers Union. He was also convicted federally for mail fraud and sentenced for an additional 18 months. It is unclear if he will serve that sentence in a state prison or if he will be moved to a federal prison.
Santeramo’s attorney said that it was a tough day for his client and his family.
Prosecutors went on to send a message to others who work in the public sector that if you want to do shady business, like what Santeramo is accused of doing, those people will get caught and charged accordingly.