NEW YORK (NEWSnet/AP) — A judge is planning a May 6, 2024, trial for U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez and his wife, who are accused of accepting bribes of cash, gold bars and a luxury car from three New Jersey businessmen who sought the senator's help and influence over foreign affairs.

An indictment in September charged Menendez, formerly chairman of Senate Foreign Relations Committee, with taking payouts in exchange for corrupt acts that included passing information to Egyptian military and intelligence officials. Prosecutors accused Menendez of ghostwriting a letter for Egyptofficials seeking to influence U.S. policy on military aid.

The indictment also said Menendez used his influence to pressure prosecutors in New Jersey into giving lenient treatment to friends or associates who were the subject of criminal investigations, and interceded with U.S. regulators to protect an associate's business deal.

Authorities found nearly $500,000 in cash, much of it hidden in clothing and closets, as well as more than $100,000 in gold bars in a search of the New Jersey home Menendez, 69, shares with his wife, Nadine.

Menendez has pleaded not guilty and said the cash found in the house was personal savings he had set aside for emergencies.

Menendez was excused from being present for the court hearing Monday in New York City. His lawyers said he had to be in Washington for Senate business. The judge declined similar requests from Nadine Menendez and her co-defendants, Wael Hana, Jose Uribe and Fred Daibes. Each has claimed innocence.

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