Sen. Bob Menendez's defense team concluded its case on Wednesday without calling the New Jersey Democrat to testify in his federal corruption trial. Over two days of testimony, Menendez's lawyers presented five witnesses, including his sister, sister-in-law, and the attorney for a friend of Jose Uribe, the businessman accused of bribing the senator for legal favors.
The defense team for co-defendant Fred Daibes also rested without presenting a defense. Meanwhile, lawyers for the other co-defendant, Wael Hana, called a witness on Wednesday and indicated that their final witness, scheduled for Monday, is pending travel arrangements.
The prosecution rested its case last Friday after seven weeks of testimony from approximately 30 witnesses. Federal prosecutors aimed to unravel multiple corruption schemes allegedly involving Menendez and his wife, Nadine Menendez, who faces separate charges in a trial later this summer.
Key Testimonies and Arguments
During the trial, Caridad Gonzalez, Menendez's sister, testified that storing cash at home was a common practice among Cuban immigrants due to fear instilled by the Cuban communist regime. She mentioned that FBI agents found nearly half a million dollars in cash at the Menendez residence during a raid in June 2022.
Another witness, Katia Tabourian, Nadine Menendez's sister, spoke about their Lebanese family's tradition of gifting gold and storing valuables at home. The defense also presented a forensic accountant, Russell Richardson, who reviewed Menendez's financial records to demonstrate a pattern of cash withdrawals.
Michael Critchley, the attorney for Elvis Parra, testified that Menendez expressed concerns about Parra's prosecution but did not request any specific action. Critchley emphasized that he did not perceive any impropriety in his conversation with Menendez.
Upcoming Proceedings
Closing arguments are expected to commence on Monday, with the trial resuming after the July 4 holiday. The defense for Wael Hana plans to call its final witness, pending travel logistics, while federal prosecutors will decide on presenting a rebuttal case in the coming days.
The trial sheds light on the intricate legal battle surrounding the corruption allegations against Sen. Bob Menendez and his associates, marking a critical juncture in the high-profile case.
