The recent corruption conviction of New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez has raised the possibility of his cancer-stricken wife, Nadine Menendez, seeking a plea deal with prosecutors, according to experts. Nadine’s trial, which involves similar charges to those faced by her husband, was indefinitely postponed due to her ongoing battle with breast cancer. The delay came just hours before Bob Menendez was found guilty on all 16 counts related to accepting bribes, including bars of gold.
Former prosecutor Duncan Levin suggested that Bob’s conviction “could potentially prompt her to consider a plea deal because it would provide a more manageable solution for her given her health condition.” John Pavia, a professor at Quinnipiac University School of Law, agreed, stating that the conviction “increases the odds” of Nadine opting for a plea. Pavia added that Nadine is likely feeling apprehensive, and her defense is currently at a disadvantage.
However, both Pavia and Levin acknowledged that one advantage of Bob Menendez going to trial first is that Nadine’s legal team has had the opportunity to review much of the prosecutor’s case and strategy. This puts them in a stronger position if they were to proceed with a trial. Former Manhattan federal prosecutor Michael Bachner noted that Nadine’s health issues could also influence the likelihood of the prosecution agreeing to a deal with minimal or no prison time.
Sources have also indicated that Nadine may be more inclined to accept a plea due to her mounting legal bills. In June, her lawyer informed Manhattan federal Judge Sidney Stein that she was experiencing “intense, chronic pain” following surgery where medical equipment was implanted in her body. Stein, in a brief order on Tuesday, stated that continuing to postpone Nadine’s trial was in the interest of justice.
