Up Close: Sen. Robert Menendez indicted on corruption charges
NEW YORK (WABC) -- U.S. Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey was indicted this week on charges of accepting nearly a million dollars in gifts and campaign contributions from a long-time friend in exchange for political favors.
Menendez, the second sitting U.S. Senator to be indicted in the last decade, has pleaded not guilty and insists he's ready to fight.
Some legal experts say this may not be a slam dunk case for prosecutors. They will have to prove that a close and longtime friendship between the two men was used for criminal purposes.
It is also likely to revive the legal debate about the constitutional protections afforded to members of Congress for what they might do in office.
Joining us is attorney and former federal prosecutor Douglas Burns.
Also this week, a scathing new report about New York City's much-maligned Build It Back program.
It was supposed to help people repair, rebuild and elevate their homes after Superstorm Sandy struck in October 2012.
A new report by New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer shows nearly $7 million was paid to contractors for work that was flawed and incomplete.
And some contractors were paid twice, which led to a loss of nearly $250,000.
Finally, there is word that Hillary Clinton's campaign has signed a lease for office space in Brooklyn Heights.
It is most likely for a presidential campaign headquarters if she decides to run.
ABC News reports a formal announcement could come later this month.
Joining us is political consultant Hank Sheinkopf, who has worked on some 700 campaigns. Among his clients: former President Bill Clinton.
