Lawyer Urges Acquittal as Menendez Corruption Trial Nears Conclusion

In a dramatic turn of events at the Manhattan federal court, the defense lawyer for Senator Bob Menendez, Adam Fee, urged jurors on Tuesday to acquit the New Jersey Democrat of all charges at his corruption trial.

Fee argued that federal prosecutors had not provided enough evidence to prove any of the 16 felony counts against Menendez beyond a reasonable doubt. He emphasized the absence of crucial evidence and highlighted the lack of definitive proof that crimes were committed or that Menendez accepted any bribes. In his statement, Fee underlined that there was "zero evidence" indicating Menendez's involvement in any illicit activities.

Controversial Findings

Fee also defended the discovery of over $100,000 in gold bars and more than $480,000 in cash at a New Jersey home, describing it as "provocative" and "atypical." Despite acknowledging the unusual nature of the findings, he stressed that the prosecutors had failed to demonstrate that these assets were given to Senator Menendez as bribes.

Allegations and Response

The defense lawyer challenged the prosecution's case, stating that it relied heavily on inferences and unsubstantiated claims, lacking support from emails, texts, or other concrete evidence. Fee underscored the significant gaps in the evidence presented by the prosecution.

Prosecution's Argument

Meanwhile, Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Monteleoni, who initiated the closing argument on Monday, maintained that Senator Menendez had exhibited "wildly abnormal" behavior in response to alleged bribes. Monteleoni emphasized the senator's attempts to interfere in criminal cases involving prominent prosecutors in New Jersey, portraying his actions as highly irregular.

Co-Defendants and Testimonies

Menendez is on trial alongside two businessmen, Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, both of whom have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The businessmen are accused of offering bribes, including gold and envelopes of cash, to solicit Menendez's assistance in their business endeavors.

Testimony from a third businessman, Jose Uribe, who pleaded guilty, alleged that he bought a luxury car for the senator's wife in exchange for Menendez halting criminal investigations into his associates' business activities. This testimony has added a significant dimension to the trial.

Defense's Response

The defense vehemently rejected attempts to portray Menendez as unaware of the efforts to obtain cash or favors by his then-girlfriend, Nadine Arslanian, now his wife. Fee argued that she concealed her financial hardships from Menendez, indicating his lack of involvement in any bribery schemes orchestrated by her.

Public Response and Political Ramifications

Senator Menendez has faced pressure to resign from his position, even from within his own party, since the charges were disclosed last fall. Despite relinquishing his powerful role as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Menendez has resisted calls for his resignation. Notably, he filed for reelection this year as an independent, signaling his determination to continue his political career despite the ongoing legal battle.