Judge declares mistrial in Menendez prosecution

[WestVirginiaRebel]

Washington Post

NEWARK — The bribery trial of Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) ended in a mistrial Thursday after jurors said they were hopelessly deadlocked on corruption charges against the lawmaker and a wealthy Florida eye doctor.

“We cannot reach a unanimous decision,’’ the jury said in a note just before noon Thursday. “Nor are we willing to move away from our strong convictions.” U.S. District Judge William Walls then privately questioned the jurors, and declared a mistrial.

A mistrial is a major victory for a senator who had to fight 18 counts of alleged corruption, and a setback for the Justice Department, whose efforts to combat public corruption have been curtailed by a recent Supreme Court decision.

Menendez was accused of taking gifts, like private flights and campaign donations, from Salomon Melgen, in exchange for government favors.

After the judge’s announcement, Menendez gave an emotional speech to cheering supporters outside the courthouse.

 

“Today is Resurrection Day,’’ Menendez said. “Anyone who knows me knows I never seek a fight, but I never shy away from one, either. This was not a fair fight.’’

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Back to corruption as usual...

[Valin]

Sen. Bob Menendez warns opponents after mistrial: 'I won't forget'

Steven Nelson

Nov 16, 2017

 

New Jersey Sen. Robert Menendez said Thursday he would not forget those seeking to benefit from his downfall after his federal trial for allegedly taking bribes ended in a mistrial.

"To those who were digging my political grave so that they could jump into my seat, I know who you are and I won't forget you," the Democrat said at a press conference.

During his remarks to reporters, Menendez thanked supporters and appeared to suggest the trial was motivated by his ethnicity.

 

(Snip)