Former U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez has requested a delay in his sentencing on bribery charges and acting as an agent of the Egyptian government. Menendez's lawyers cited concerns about the emotional toll it would take on his family if he were sentenced during his wife's trial. They proposed moving the sentencing to a date after his wife's trial, which may extend into March.
Menendez, who resigned after his conviction on 16 charges including bribery and obstruction of justice, has challenged the verdict due to jurors seeing evidence that was meant to be excluded. His wife, Nadine Menendez, faces similar charges and is set to begin her trial on January 21, while Bob Menendez's sentencing is scheduled for January 29.
The defense emphasized Menendez's role in caring for his wife's physical and emotional well-being, stating that the sentencing during her trial would be emotionally taxing for the family. Nadine Menendez's lawyer also urged the judge to reject prosecutors' suggestion of holding the sentencing right before her trial, fearing it would negatively impact her ability to focus on the proceedings.
Prosecutors allege that the Menendez couple received significant sums of money and gifts from businessmen in exchange for political favors. The FBI raid at their New Jersey home uncovered gold bars, cash, and a luxury car, all believed to be part of the bribery scheme involving the senator and the businessmen.
Menendez, who held a prominent position as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee at the time of his charges, was forced to relinquish his post following the legal proceedings.
