In a dramatic turn, prosecutors have revealed that the jury in former U.S. Senator Robert Menendez’s corruption case mistakenly viewed unredacted evidence that was supposed to be off-limits. Menendez, convicted on 16 counts in August, maintains his innocence, claiming he did not exploit his political power in exchange for gold bars, cash, and other bribes tied to his alleged dealings with New Jersey businessmen.
During the Manhattan federal trial, jurors were exposed to nine pieces of unredacted evidence while deliberating—an oversight missed by both the defense and the prosecution. Yet, despite the procedural misstep, prosecutors insist the error should not affect Menendez’s conviction. They argued in a letter to U.S. District Judge Sidney Stein that the case’s evidence was “overwhelming,” making any influence from the unredacted material negligible.
Menendez, once a powerful voice as chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, was found guilty of acting illegally as an agent for Egypt, obstructing justice, committing wire fraud, and attempting extortion. Following a nine-week trial and three days of jury deliberation, he was convicted of all charges.
Menendez’s sentencing is set for January 25, with the former senator potentially facing a lengthy prison term. Meanwhile, New Jersey voters have already moved forward, electing Andy Kim to fill Menendez’s former Senate seat.
