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Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez Sentenced to 11 Years for Bribery

Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez was sentenced to 11 years in prison for bribery and acting as a foreign agent. The case involved corruption charges linked to gold bars and financial favors for Egypt and New Jersey businessmen. While prosecutors sought a harsher sentence, Menendez plans to appeal, keeping the legal battle ongoing.

U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) exits Federal Court following his bribery trial in connection with an alleged corrupt relationship with three New Jersey businessmen, in New York City, U.S., July 16, 2024. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo 

Bob Menendez Sentenced to 11 Years for Bribery

Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez received an 11-year prison sentence following his 2024 conviction on bribery and corruption charges. The sentencing took place at a Manhattan federal court, where Judge Sidney Stein delivered the ruling. Menendez was found guilty of accepting bribes, including gold bars and cash, in exchange for political favors.


Prosecutors Pushed for a Harsher Sentence

Federal prosecutors had urged the court to impose a 15-year prison sentence, arguing that Menendez used his political position to benefit foreign governments and personal allies. They claimed that he facilitated military aid to Egypt and intervened in local prosecutions on behalf of wealthy businessmen in return for lavish gifts.


Defense Argued for Leniency Due to Age and Public Service

Menendez, 71, pleaded not guilty and is set to appeal the conviction. His defense team requested a reduced sentence of no more than 2.25 years, citing his age, decades of public service, and charitable contributions. Despite their arguments, the court imposed a significantly longer sentence.


Co-Defendants Also Sentenced

Two New Jersey businessmen linked to the bribery case were also sentenced. Fred Daibes received seven years in prison, while Wael Hana was sentenced to just over eight years. Meanwhile, Menendez’s wife, Nadine Menendez, was also charged but her trial was postponed due to her breast cancer treatment. She is scheduled to appear in court on March 18.


Political and Legal Implications

Menendez’s case marks the first time a U.S. Senator has been convicted of acting as a foreign agent. His resignation from the Senate in August 2024 ended an 18-year political career. His appeal process may continue to draw significant legal and political attention in the coming months.

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