Menendez trial judge suggests doubt about feds’ case
NEWARK, N.J. — The judge in the bribery trial of U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez and a wealthy friend delayed ruling Wednesday on whether to grant the defense’s motion to dismiss the charges, but he appeared to indicate he has doubts about a legal concept at the heart of the government’s case.
U.S. District Judge William Walls expressed reservations that prosecutors have shown direct links between alleged bribes by Florida eye doctor Salomon Melgen and meetings and other interactions Menendez, D-N.J., had with government officials.
The indictment alleges Melgen plied Menendez over several years with gifts that included free flights and stays at luxury hotels.
Defense attorneys have argued that a 2016 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that reversed the conviction of former Republican Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell invalidated the stream of benefits theory.
The trial judge focused on the question Wednesday, asking Department of Justice attorney Peter Koski, “What’s the quid for those quos?” referring to the Latin quid pro quo, or “something for something.”
“I’m trying to find out how you link the quid to the alleged quo and vice versa,” the judge went on, adding, “I know what you’re trying to do, but I don’t think you can do it.”
If the judge rules the stream of benefits theory can’t be applied to this case, it could cut out the heart of the 18-count indictment : the 12 bribery counts, six against each man; the top count, conspiracy to engage in honest services wire fraud, and possibly three others.