NEW YORK (AP) – The bribery trial of Nadine Menendez, the wife of former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez, is underway in a Manhattan federal court. The jury commenced deliberations last Friday but concluded without reaching a verdict.

Background on Nadine Menendez

Nadine Menendez, aged 58 and residing in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, faces serious federal bribery charges. Prosecutors allege her involvement in a five-year scheme linked to her husband and three business associates from New Jersey, which purportedly included substantial cash and gold bars discovered in their home.

Deliberations and Court Proceedings

The jury began their discussions on Friday afternoon but adjourned after approximately two hours. They are expected to resume on Monday, as they weigh the evidence presented throughout the trial.

During the defense’s closing statements, attorney Barry Coburn contended that the evidence against Nadine Menendez was insufficient for a conviction. In rebuttal, Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Richenthal strongly urged the jury to disregard the defense’s arguments, stating, “They weren’t gifts. They were bribes.”

Historical Context

The trial comes in the wake of Bob Menendez’s conviction last year on bribery charges. The former senator is scheduled to report to prison in June to serve an 11-year sentence. Initially, Nadine was set to face charges alongside her husband; however, her trial was postponed due to surgery related to a breast cancer diagnosis.

Personal Background

Nadine Menendez was born in Lebanon and is of Armenian descent. She began her relationship with the senator in 2018 when she was still known by her maiden name, Nadine Arslanian. Prosecutors allege that she became involved in the bribery scheme through connections she had prior to her marriage to Bob Menendez, which took place in the fall of 2020.

Next Steps in the Trial

The jury’s deliberations will continue on Monday as they evaluate the evidence and testimonies presented in this significant case. The outcome could have substantial implications for both Nadine Menendez and the public image of the Menendez family.