Democrat Bob Menendez won’t be doing any time. Not based on this trial, anyway. The jury returned to the courtroom today with a note, explaining that they are hopelessly deadlocked and cannot reach a verdict.
The judge said that asking the jurors for a partial verdict would be a “futile exercise” and that doing so would lead down a “slippery slope of coercion“, according to Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Andrew Seidman.
Menendez’s attorneys are asking for a mistrial, and moments ago all the attorneys joined the judge in chambers to discuss the case. The judge wants to interview the jury foreman.
Syndicated columnist Phil Kerpen wants to know more about the situation with the holdout.
I mean, what were the odds the ONE holdout (juror #8) on the false statements count would be dismissed and replaced with an alternate who also holds out on it???? #MenendezTrial
— Phil Kerpen (@kerpen) November 16, 2017
It doesn’t look good.
"I think we have a for-real hung jury," Menendez attorney told the judge.
— Andrew Seidman (@AndrewSeidman) November 16, 2017
Judge, prosecution and defense are interviewing the jury foreman right now in private chambers. Melgen and Menendez in there too.
— Nick Corasaniti (@NYTnickc) November 16, 2017
We’ll update you when there is some decision.
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