A federal jury in Manhattan delivered a decisive verdict yesterday, finding Nadine Menendez, wife of the disgraced former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, guilty on all charges in a high-profile bribery and corruption case. Nadine, who stood trial for her involvement in a scheme where she and her husband traded political favors for cash, luxury gifts, and other valuables, was convicted on 15 counts, including bribery and obstruction of justice, according to Gothamist.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky was clear in his statement, saying, "Nadine Menendez and Senator Menendez were partners in crime," highlighting the betrayal of public trust they engaged in for personal gain. Evidence presented during her three-week trial showed Nadine accepted money and other goods from businessmen seeking political influence from her husband, including a Mercedes-Benz from Jose Uribe, as detailed by CBS News. Her conviction followed a prior verdict against her senator husband, which resulted in an 11-year prison sentence set to commence in June.
Jose Uribe, one of the businessmen involved, testified that the luxury car he bought for Nadine was a bribe for Bob Menendez to exert his influence on state prosecutors. Uribe took a plea deal in the case. The ex-senator's trials shed light on the corrupt acts which included foreign political favors, $100,000 in gold bars, and substantial cash amounts discovered in the couple's home.
Following the verdict, Nadine Menendez appeared next to her attorney Barry Coburn, who expressed their disappointment. "I am devastated by the verdict. We fought hard, and it hurts," Coburn told reporters outside of court. Nadine declined to comment after the ruling. Bob Menendez, who had his surrender date delayed to assist with her trial, had been notably absent though on the potential witness list. He will begin serving his sentence shortly after Nadine's scheduled sentencing in June, according to CBS News.
"Today's verdict sends the clear message that the power of government officials may not be put up for sale, and that all those who facilitate corruption will be held accountable for their actions," Podolsky conveyed. Nadine Menendez is scheduled to be sentenced on June 12, marking the conclusion of one chapter in this high-profile corruption case, in a statement obtained by CBS News.
