Former Senator Bob Menendez was sentenced to 11 years in prison on Wednesday (January 29) for his involvement in a long-running corruption and bribery scheme. The 71-year-old former New Jersey senator was convicted in July of 16 federal crimes, including extortion, conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and acting as a foreign agent for Egypt's government.

The case centered around allegations that Menendez accepted bribes, including gold bars and cash, in exchange for political favors benefiting the governments of Egypt and Qatar.

Menendez's co-defendants, Fred Daibes and Wael Hana, were also sentenced on Wednesday to seven and eight years in prison, respectively, along with significant fines. Menendez's wife, Nadine, who was indicted alongside him, has not yet been tried due to ongoing cancer treatments. Her trial is scheduled for March.

Prosecutors argued that Menendez's actions were among the most serious for which a U.S. senator has been convicted. The U.S. attorney’s office noted that this was the first time that a U.S. senator had been convicted of abusing their position on a Senate committee and the first time a person was convicted of serving as a foreign agent while in public office.

Despite his conviction, Menendez's attorneys argued for leniency, citing his age and previous public service. They contended that he had already suffered public shame and financial ruin.

However, prosecutors emphasized the need for a lengthy sentence due to the severity of his crimes and his position of power. Menendez, who resigned from the Senate in August, pleaded not guilty and plans to appeal the conviction. He has also sought a pardon from President Donald Trump after failing to secure one from former President Joe Biden.

The Afternoon News with Kitty O'Neal