Former Democratic Senator Bob Menendez faces over 10 years in prison following his conviction for corruption linked to three New Jersey businessmen and the Egyptian government. In July, after a lengthy trial, he was found guilty of acting as an agent for a foreign government, marking the first Senate conviction in U.S. history. Prosecutors are seeking “at least 15 years” for Menendez due to a significant abuse of power and public trust. His defense is requesting community service instead of prison time, arguing that he deserves leniency given his age and the impact of the conviction on his career. Evidence presented at trial included cash, gold bars, and other valuables found in Menendez’s possession. The allegations also involve exerting pressure on agriculture and military assistance to benefit the businessmen involved. This isn’t Menendez’s first encounter with the law, as he faced corruption charges previously in 2015 but was acquitted of some charges. His wife, Nadine, was also indicted but is awaiting trial in March after health concerns halted proceedings.
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