Nadine Menendez’s request to postpone her trial was denied, with proceedings set for February 5, closely following her husband’s sentencing.
Judge Sidney Stein ruled against her plea to push the trial date from February 5, arguing that the timing was crucial. Nadine’s lawyers claimed that the upcoming sentencing of her husband, set for January 29, could unfairly influence potential jurors in her case.
They worried that media coverage surrounding Bob’s sentencing might sway opinions about Nadine’s trial. Nadine appeared via video in court, where the judge dismissed her last-minute request.
Initially, her trial was scheduled just before her husband’s sentencing but was delayed for a few weeks. Nadine, 58, and Bob, 71, are accused of accepting bribes totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars, including cash, gold bars, and a luxury car.
Bob allegedly used his Senate position to benefit foreign governments and businessmen in exchange for these bribes. Nadine’s case was separated from her husband’s after she was diagnosed with breast cancer last year.
Bob Menendez was convicted in July and faces a lengthy prison sentence. He plans to support Nadine during her trial, which is expected to be closely watched. Federal prosecutors are pushing for a significant prison term for him, while he seeks a lighter sentence.
Nadine’s lawyer has not commented on the recent developments.
