Senator Bob Menendez is facing trial in federal court in Manhattan, accused of taking bribes in the form of gold and cash to use his position to help three businessmen from New Jersey.
The Democratic senator sat with his lawyers as Judge Sidney H. Stein explained the charges to over 150 potential jurors. They were informed that Menendez, along with two of the businessmen, allegedly engaged in a conspiracy involving accepting bribes.
Judge Stein informed the jurors that the trial could last up to seven weeks and asked those who couldn’t serve for that duration to raise their hands. He then interviewed them individually to understand their reasons.
Senator Bob Menendez (Via Tom Burry/Shutterstock)
Menendez, aged 70, is standing trial alongside two businessmen accused of paying him bribes: real estate developer Fred Daibes and Wael Hana. All three have pleaded not guilty. Another businessman has pleaded guilty and agreed to testify against them. Menendez’s wife is also charged, but her trial has been postponed until at least July.
Judge Stein concluded the day’s proceedings before questioning all jurors collectively about their knowledge of anyone involved in the case, including lawyers, defendants, and potential witnesses.
