Former Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez Faces Possible Decade in Prison for Bribery
Former Sen. Bob Menendez is set to be sentenced on Wednesday for taking bribes in the form of cash, a Mercedes-Benz, and gold bars in exchange for helping three New Jersey businessmen and the government of Egypt. Menendez was convicted in July of 16 felony counts following a nine-week trial, making him the first U.S. senator to be charged and convicted of acting as an agent of a foreign government.
Prosecutors have asked Judge Sidney Stein to sentence Menendez to at least 15 years in prison and order him to pay millions in forfeitures and fines. The U.S. Probation Office recommends a 12-year sentence. Menendez’s lawyers, on the other hand, are seeking a sentence of no prison time, arguing that their client is deserving of mercy due to his age, the penalties already imposed, and his lack of a compelling need to serve a custodial sentence.
The 71-year-old senator’s fall from power is dramatic, as he was previously one of the most powerful senators, chairing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. However, his conviction and potential sentence of over a decade in prison mark a significant downfall.
During the trial, the jury heard evidence of Menendez’s alleged actions, including keeping gold bars and cash in his home, including envelopes stuffed with cash in shoes and a jacket pocket bearing his name. Prosecutors argued that Menendez used his position to benefit the businessmen and the Egyptian government, including pressing for halal meat certification and military aid, and attempting to tamper with criminal investigations.
Menendez’s lawyers, who have submitted over 100 letters of support, including from local politicians, religious figures, and constituents, argue that their client is deserving of mercy. The judge will decide on his sentence on Wednesday. Menendez’s wife, Nadine, has pleaded not guilty to charges related to the same scandal and is scheduled to go to trial in March.
