Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ) was convicted on all 16 counts of bribery, fraud, and extortion by a jury on Tuesday. The trial, which lasted nearly 10 weeks, concluded with the jury finding Menendez guilty after three days of deliberation.
The charges against Menendez involved accepting bribes, including cash, gold bars, and a luxury car, in exchange for political favors. If sentenced to the maximum penalty for each charge, Menendez could face up to 200 years in prison. Despite the overwhelming evidence, Menendez continued to proclaim his innocence, claiming his actions were within his authority and that he was merely helping friends of his wife, Nadine.
Prosecutors from the Southern District of New York provided compelling evidence, including photos of more than $480,000 in cash hidden in clothing and a safe, as well as over $70,000 in a safe deposit box. The bribes also included a new 2019 Mercedes-Benz for Nadine Menendez. Investigators found that Menendez had sent sensitive, non-public information to his wife, who forwarded it to Egyptian officials, influencing U.S. foreign policy for personal gain.
Menendez had previously evaded corruption charges but was not as fortunate this time. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy (D) have both called for Menendez to step down. Schumer stated, “Senator Menendez must now do what is right for his constituents, the Senate, and our country, and resign.”
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams highlighted the gravity of Menendez’s actions, saying, “This case has always been about shocking levels of corruption. Hundreds of thousands of dollars of bribes, including gold, cash, and a Mercedes-Benz. This wasn’t politics as usual; this was politics for profit.”
Following the verdict, Menendez’s attorneys announced plans to appeal. Nadine Menendez, who also faces charges, will have her trial in August. The conviction marks a significant moment in the fight against political corruption and serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity in public office.
