© Kevin R. Wexler / NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK
(New York, NY) – A witness in the bribery trial of Senator Bob Menendez says the price of meat in Egypt skyrocketed after a deal was arranged with the company run by the codefendant in the case. James Bret Tate is an ambassador who was based in Egypt’s capital for several years. He said that the power to certify foods as halal was once shared between several companies – until it became an authority granted to one company alone.
Prosecutors claim that in return for bribes, Menendez orchestrated a deal granting the company of his co defendant, Wael “Will” Hana’s, sole control over halal certifications on imported meat. The certification is required for Islamic dietary restrictions. After the deal, meat prices went up around 2,400%. A truck load of meat used to run $200 to $400, however after the deal prices now start at $5,000.
Defense lawyers say the exclusive deal was granted to Hana’s company by Egypt, with no crime happening at all. They claim that Egypt was not satisfied with the quality of work coming from the spread of companies that previously controlled certifications.
The wife of the New Jersey Democrat, Nadine Menendez, is also named in the case but her trial has been postponed since she was diagnosed with breast cancer, as announced on Thursday. The Senator’s trial kicked off Monday May 13th, with a three-day long jury selection process. Legal experts project the trial may last up to two months.
Menendez has had to resign from his chairman post of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee following his arrest. He announced that he is not running for re-election on the Democratic ticket, but says he may seek an Independent bid if exonerated.
