Sen. Bob Menendez found guilty on all 16 counts in criminal corruption trial

A Manhattan jury convicted U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., on all 16 criminal counts he faced on Tuesday, July 16. The jury deliberated for around 12.5 hours over three days before reaching a verdict in a trial that lasted nine weeks.

The jury convicted Menendez of taking hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes in exchange for getting businessmen out of legal trouble and helping direct American funds to Egypt and Qatar.

Two businessmen, who were co-defendants, were also found guilty on all counts.

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The once-prominent Democrat pled not guilty to the charges, which included obstructing justice and acting as a foreign agent.

“Obviously, I’m deeply, deeply disappointed by the jury’s decision. I have every faith that the law and facts did not sustain that decision.” Menendez said following the verdict.

The judge presiding over the case set Menendez’s sentencing for Oct. 29. The senator’s defense team said that it will appeal the conviction.

Menendez stepped down as chair of the U.S. Foreign Relations Committee in September after being charged in relation to the criminal corruption case.

However, he has resisted calls from fellow Democrats to resign. He is currently running as an independent for reelection.

Meanwhile, his wife Nadine Menendez, who prosecutors said had a major role in the bribery scandal, will face a trial at a later date. She did not attend her husband’s trial after doctors diagnosed her with breast cancer.

Menendez has been a politician for decades, representing New Jersey in the Senate since 2006. He previously served 13 years in the House of Representatives. He also served in the New Jersey State Legislature and as a mayor.