Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) pleaded for mercy in court but was handed an 11-year prison sentence for his role in a high-profile bribery scheme involving gold bars, cash, and luxury perks.
Menendez, the first U.S. senator ever convicted of acting as a foreign agent, was found guilty of selling political influence in exchange for favors to Egypt and Qatar. The scheme also involved bribes, including a Mercedes-Benz and lavish gifts.
The judge dismissed his emotional plea, stating: “Somewhere along the way, you became a corrupt politician.”
Menendez’s co-conspirators also received significant sentences:
- Wael Hana – 8 years
- Fred Daibes – 7 years
Source: NY Post