Why hasn't Santos been charged with any crime yet? Forget his lies, what about the reports of....

[onenote]

16. And in the real world, investigations take time.

It was reported in late December that the US Attorney's Office has initiated an investigation of Santos. Investigations of financial crimes are not completed overnight.

An example: in 1997, DOJ launched a task force to investigate campaign finance violations occurring during the 1996 election cycle. It uncovered and brought charges in a number of cases. Typically, before charges were brought, DOJ engaged in plea deal negotiations with the target. In a typical case, it was not until 1999 that formal charges were brought pursuant to a plea deal. These investigations and the plea negotiations are treated as highly confidential matters.

So while you may assume that nothing is happening, its more likely that something is happening but DOJ has not reason to provide updates to you, me or any other member of the public at large.