Sen. Bob Menendez's recent conviction on corruption charges could potentially motivate his wife, Nadine Menendez, to seek a plea deal, experts suggest. Nadine, who is battling breast cancer, had her trial indefinitely delayed on Tuesday, just hours before her husband was found guilty on all 16 counts related to accepting bribes, including gold bars. Legal analysts believe that her health condition and the outcome of Bob Menendez's trial could prompt her to consider a plea agreement.
Former prosecutor Duncan Levin noted, "Bob's conviction could potentially prompt her to consider a plea deal because it would provide a more manageable solution for her given her health condition." Similarly, John Pavia, a professor at Quinnipiac University School of Law, said, "Bob's conviction increases the odds that Nadine will cop a plea," adding that prosecutors now have a stronger position and Nadine is likely "scared to death" and feeling "behind the eight-ball."
Both Levin and Pavia pointed out that one advantage of Bob going to trial first is that Nadine's defense team has had the opportunity to observe the prosecution's case and strategy. This insight could put them in a stronger position if they decide to proceed to trial. Former Manhattan federal prosecutor Michael Bachner added that Nadine's serious medical issues might make the government more willing to agree to a deal with reduced or no prison time. "Her lawyers may attempt to work out a disposition with the US attorney's office to seriously diminish her prison exposure," Bachner said.
In June, Nadine's lawyer informed Manhattan federal Judge Sidney Stein that she was suffering from "intense, chronic pain" after a surgery involving the implantation of medical equipment. This disclosure further supports the argument for a more lenient plea deal based on her health.
Nadine Menendez's mounting legal bills are another factor that might influence her decision to seek a plea deal. Sources told The Post that her financial burdens could make a plea agreement more attractive. The continuation of her trial was deemed necessary by Judge Stein, who stated that "the ends of justice" would be best served by postponing the trial due to her health issues.
Bob Menendez, who faces decades in prison, plans to resign from the Senate seat he has held since 2006, according to sources. The jury found that Menendez leveraged his powerful position to benefit three businessmen and the governments of Egypt and Qatar.
Despite growing pressure to resign, Sen. Bob Menendez has publicly denied any intention to step down. In an interview with CBS News, Menendez refuted an earlier report by NBC News that he had told allies he was going to quit. "I have not resigned nor have I spoken to any so-called allies... Anyone who knows me knows that's the worst way to achieve a goal with me," Menendez stated.
Senior Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and fellow New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, have called for Menendez's resignation following his conviction. Menendez, however, remained defiant, stating his intention to appeal the verdict and maintaining silence on the subject of resignation.
Prosecutors outlined how Menendez and his wife accepted hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, gold bars, and payments for car and mortgage expenses from three businessmen seeking his influence. Menendez allegedly helped steer billions of dollars in U.S. aid to Egypt, where one of the businessmen, Wael Hana, had government connections.
The conviction has significant implications not only for Menendez's political career but also for his wife's legal strategy. As the legal proceedings unfold, the spotlight remains on how Nadine Menendez will navigate her charges amidst health challenges and financial pressures.
