Corruption in New Jersey

The Garden State's relationship with political corruption continues to thrive.

U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, center, arrives at Newark federal court, Thursday, April 2, 2015, in Newark, N.J. Menendez was indicted on corruption charges Wednesday. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

New Jersey U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez is well funded for his legal fight against federal bribery and corruption charges. The Democrat's legal defense fund has raised $1.3 million, including $10,000 from a retired New Jersey developer who served two years in prison for illegal kickbacks.

The fund paid for about $850,000 in legal expenses through March 31, the day before Menendez was indicted. He has pleaded not guilty and has vowed to fight the charges.

Meanwhile, a former North Jersey Democratic power broker has been convicted of a battery of charges including wire fraud, racketeering and bribery. The government said Joseph Ferriero used his position and power as head of the Bergen County Democratic Organization to run bribery and kickback schemes. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 27.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Categories: New Jersey News