NEW YORK — Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez was sentenced to 11 years in prison on Wednesday for accepting bribes, including gold bars and cash, and for acting as an agent of Egypt. The sentencing marks a significant moment in U.S. political history, as it is the harshest penalty ever imposed on a sitting or former senator for corruption.

During the proceedings, U.S. District Judge Sidney H. Stein described Menendez as having lost his way in serving the public, stating, “Somewhere along the way, you became, I’m sorry to say, a corrupt politician.” This conviction follows a nine-week trial that concluded in July 2024, where a jury found Menendez guilty on all 16 felony counts, including bribery, extortion, and conspiracy.

At the sentencing hearing, Menendez, 71, tearfully addressed the judge, stating, “I have lost everything…Every day I’m awake is a punishment.” Menendez was once a powerful figure in the Senate, chairing the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, but he resigned after his conviction in August 2024. His lawyers had requested a reduced sentence of less than two years, citing his long history of public service and personal sacrifices.

Federal prosecutors had argued for a 15-year sentence, emphasizing that Menendez had traded his influence for bribes, describing his actions as an “extraordinary abuse of power.” Prosecutors detailed how Menendez facilitated military aid to Egypt, aided business interests, and attempted to interfere with criminal cases against businessmen in exchange for valuable gifts, including more than $480,000 in cash and luxury items.

On the day of sentencing, two of Menendez's co-defendants, Fred Daibes and Wael Hana, received prison sentences of seven and eight years, respectively, for their roles in the bribery scheme.

Menendez denied any wrongdoing, insisting that he plans to appeal the verdict. “I am innocent,” he stated outside the courthouse, highlighting his view that the prosecution was politically motivated. His remarks drew parallels to former President Donald Trump's criticisms of the judicial system.

As Menendez’s legal troubles continue, his wife, Nadine Menendez, is set to stand trial on similar charges in March 2025 after her case was delayed due to health issues. She has pleaded not guilty.

The dramatic fall from grace for Menendez, often referred to as “Gold Bar Bob” due to the nature of the corruption charges, underscores the ongoing issues of trust and integrity within American political systems. For further details, read more from Time.