Nadine Menendez Convicted in Federal Bribery Case Following Husband’s Sentencing
Nadine Menendez has been found guilty in her federal bribery trial, following the earlier conviction of her husband, former New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez, on similar corruption charges.
Prosecutors described the couple as “partners in crime,” accusing them of accepting bribes—including cash, gold bars, and a luxury car—in exchange for political favors. The defense argued Nadine had no direct involvement in the scheme.
The jury deliberated from Friday afternoon until delivering the verdict on Monday. Nadine, who pleaded not guilty to 15 charges—including conspiracy to commit bribery and fraud—will be sentenced in June, the same month her husband is scheduled to begin his 11-year prison term. Some of the charges carry potential sentences of up to 20 years.
Bob Menendez was convicted in January on all 16 counts, making him the first sitting U.S. senator convicted of acting as a foreign agent. Prosecutors said the couple accepted bribes from three New Jersey businessmen, who have also been convicted, in exchange for actions benefiting foreign interests, including Egypt.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky stated: “Over five years, Nadine Menendez accepted gold bars, cash, a Mercedes-Benz, and a no-show job in exchange for Senator Menendez’s corrupt acts. Today’s verdict makes clear: public office is not for sale.”
The FBI found $70,000 in cash hidden in Nadine’s safe deposit box and in jackets bearing the senator’s name. Prosecutors said Nadine helped facilitate meetings between her husband and Egyptian officials, forming the basis of a corrupt agreement.
Due to a breast cancer diagnosis, Nadine was tried separately from her husband. Her trial faced multiple delays due to health issues, including surgery and illness during proceedings. On the eve of her trial, Bob Menendez criticized the government for forcing her to proceed despite her medical condition.
The former senator has called the charges politically motivated, expressing hope that Donald Trump will “clean up the system.” Judge Sidney Stein delayed Bob Menendez’s prison report date until June 6 so he could support his wife during her trial.
