Federal judge declares mistrial in Menendez’s corruption case

FAN Editor

A federal judge in New Jersey today declared a mistrial in the corruption case of Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., after the jury indicated it was deadlocked on all counts.

“We have each tried to look at this case from different viewpoints, but still feel strongly in our positions, nor are we willing to move away from our strong convictions,” jurors told U.S. District Judge William Walls when he polled them in his chambers.

The judge had earlier indicated he would not seek a partial verdict.

Speaking to reporters outside the courthouse in Newark, Menendez held back tears as he thanked his family, his defense team and his congressional colleagues for their support.

“The way this case started was wrong. The way it was investigated was wrong. The way it was prosecuted was wrong. And the way it was tried was wrong as well,” the senator said. “Certain elements of the FBI and of our state cannot understand or even worse, accept that the Latino kid from union city and Hudson County can grow up to be a United States senator and be honest.”

When asked for comment on the mistrial decision this afternoon, a spokeswoman for the U.S. Department of Justice told ABC News, “The Department of Justice appreciates the jury’s service in this lengthy trial. The Department will carefully consider next steps in this important matter and report to the Court at the appropriate time.”

ABC News’ Mike Levine and Jason Volack contributed to this report.

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