Bribe charges stick to Sen. Menendez

PHILADELPHIA — A federal appeals court on Friday refused to toss a corruption case against U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey, casting aside his argument that charges he accepted gifts in exchange for political influence should be thrown out because of a constitutional clause protecting sitting lawmakers.

A three-judge panel from the 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Philadelphia said arguments from the indicted Democrat’s attorneys that the senator’s meetings with government officials were held to discuss policy matters, not to benefit a wealthy friend, should be heard at trial. Prosecutors allege the friend, Florida ophthalmologist Salomon Melgen, plied Menendez with gifts and campaign donations in exchange for political influence. Both men have pleaded innocent to bribery and fraud charges.

Menendez attorney Abbe Lowell said he’ll appeal to the full circuit court and then to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary.

The appeals court panel said the alleged acts in the case were essentially lobbying and “outside the constitutional safe harbor.”

Upcoming Events