Posted 1/16/2024, 3:02:00 AM
Menendez Seeks Separate Trial From Wife, Citing Conflicting Defenses Against Corruption Charges
- Sen. Bob Menendez asked a judge to sever his trial from his wife's, arguing he would have to choose between defending himself and testifying against her
- Menendez plans to argue he lacked knowledge of his wife's conduct and did not agree to join any conspiracies
- Menendez's attorneys said he would have to choose between testifying in his own defense and exercising spousal privilege
- Nadine Menendez also asked the judge to sever their trials due to an "irreconcilable conflict"
- Menendez faces bribery charges for allegedly taking steps to benefit Egypt, Qatar, and NJ businessmen in exchange for gifts; he and his wife have pleaded not guilty