Senator Bob Menendez, a Democrat from New Jersey, is expected to employ a defense strategy that involves implicating his wife, Nadine, during his federal corruption trial, according to newly-unsealed court documents. The court filings revealed that Menendez's attorneys argued for his case to be severed, meaning tried separately from his wife, due to his intention to introduce evidence that could suggest his wife's guilt.
Both Menendez and his wife have pleaded not guilty to charges of bribery and obstruction of justice. The allegations against them include accepting bribes in the form of cash, gold bars, and a Mercedes-Benz from various business individuals and the Egyptian government.
The court documents hinted at potential evidence that may be presented during the trial, suggesting that Senator Menendez may testify about communications with his wife to demonstrate his lack of awareness of any illegal activities. The attorneys implied that these communications could exonerate Menendez while potentially implicating Nadine for withholding information.
The bribes in question were allegedly provided to the couple by New Jersey businessmen Wael Hana and Fred Daibes in exchange for Menendez's influence and power. Additionally, the couple is accused of receiving gifts from Jose Uribe, who has already pleaded guilty to bribery charges.
Nadine Menendez's trial was already severed from her husband's, and her attorneys recently requested a postponement due to a 'serious medical condition' that she was diagnosed with in April. The senator's trial is set to commence on May 6, while Nadine's trial is scheduled for July 8.
