“Let me say this about Nadine: Nadine had monetary considerations that she stored from Bob,” mentioned defence lawyer Avi Weitzman.
That they had separate lives, Mr Weitzman mentioned, with Mr Menendez usually centered on serving to his constituents from his seat in Washington.
“The federal government’s allegations that the senator offered his workplace and his loyalty to this nation are outrageously false,” Mr Weitzman mentioned. “Bob was doing his job, and he was doing it proper.”
Wednesday’s opening arguments adopted greater than two days of jury choice. Twelve jurors and 6 options have been in the end chosen, a bunch that features an funding banker, a health care provider and a number of therapists.
Mr Menendez has been charged with 18 felony counts, together with bribery, extortion, wire fraud, obstruction of justice and performing as a international agent.
Investigators executing a search warrant at Mr Menendez’s residence in September discovered greater than $480,000 (£380,000) in money stuffed in envelopes and coats, and 13 gold bars value over $100,000.
Brokers additionally discovered different obvious items, together with a Mercedes-Benz and a variety of residence furnishings.
Prosecutors say the gadgets found have been a part of a scheme to help the federal government of Egypt. Additionally they allege Mr Menendez accepted bribes to make use of his affect to learn Qatar.
Mr Menendez is on trial with Fred Daibes, a New Jersey actual property developer who allegedly delivered the gold and money to the senator, and businessman Wael Hana, who allegedly brokered a deal between Mr Menendez and the Egyptian authorities. Each Mr Daibes and Mr Hana have additionally pleaded not responsible.
