On Wednesday, January 29th, a federal judge sentenced former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez to 11 years in prison on corruption and bribery charges.
The sentencing comes after a jury found Menendez guilty last year on 16 counts, including acting as a foreign agent while serving in the Senate. The case involved allegations that he accepted gold bars, cash, and a luxury car in exchange for using his political power to benefit New Jersey business people and the Egyptian government.
Judge Sidney Stein said Menendez “lost his way” despite standing at the highest levels of political power. Before sentencing, Menendez became emotional, telling the court he was a “chastened man” and reflecting on his career in public service.
His co-defendants, businessmen Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, were also sentenced Wednesday to eight and seven years in prison, respectively. Menendez will remain free until June 6th, as his wife, Nadine Menendez, faces her trial in March on related charges.
This is a developing story.
