A key witness in the federal corruption trial of Sen. Bob Menendez testified on Friday, revealing details of a bribery scheme involving the senator and his alleged co-conspirators. Ted McKinney, a former US Department of Agriculture official, recounted a phone call with Menendez where the senator allegedly instructed him to 'stop interfering' regarding a food industry monopoly held by Menendez's constituent, Wael Hana.
McKinney learned in April 2019 that Egypt had replaced several halal certifiers in the US with a sole certifier, IS EG Halal, owned by Hana. Concerned about the lack of experience of the new certifier and its impact on competition, McKinney reached out to Egyptian officials to find a solution.
Despite his efforts, McKinney testified that Menendez directed him to cease his interference, emphasizing the importance of protecting his constituent's interests. McKinney's attempts to explain the potential consequences of the monopoly were reportedly cut short by Menendez, who spoke in a serious and curt manner during the call.
McKinney's decision not to send a follow-up email to Menendez was influenced by his awareness of an ongoing FBI investigation into the senator. The trial also heard from James Bret Tate, a diplomat, who shed light on how Hana's company secured the monopoly.
The federal corruption trial, now in its third week, will resume with further cross-examination of McKinney on Monday as prosecutors continue to build their case against Menendez, Hana, and their co-defendants.
