The federal bribery trial of Democratic Senator Bob Menendez continues with a key witness for the prosecution, Jose Uribe, detailing an alleged scheme to trade favors for influence. Uribe, who has already pleaded guilty to bribery charges and is now cooperating with the prosecution, testified about specific conversations he had with Senator Menendez related to bribery.
Uribe recounted a dinner in 2019 at Il Velaggio restaurant in New Jersey where he expressed concerns about ongoing criminal investigations that could implicate people close to him. He claimed to have paid Nadine Menendez $15,000 for a new Mercedes in exchange for the senator's influence. Uribe also described a meeting at Nadine Menendez's home where he wrote down names of individuals possibly involved in the investigations, which Menendez reportedly pocketed.
In October 2019, Uribe received a call from Senator Menendez, indicating that the situation had been resolved. Uribe became emotional while testifying, expressing relief and a sense of peace. At a dinner in 2020, Menendez allegedly told Uribe, 'I saved your ass twice,' suggesting he had intervened on Uribe's behalf on multiple occasions.
Uribe's testimony is expected to continue with cross-examination scheduled for the following day. The trial remains ongoing as more details emerge regarding the alleged bribery scheme involving Senator Menendez and his associates.
