Bangladesh, Sept. 15 -- Nadine Menendez, the wife of former US Senator Robert Menendez, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years in federal prison for her role in a high-profile bribery scheme that involved stacks of cash, gold bars, and luxury vehicles. The sentencing, delivered by District Judge Sidney H. Stein on September 11, marks a significant chapter in a case that has shaken political circles and underscored the reach of corruption at the highest levels of American politics.

At 58, Nadine Menendez stood before the court, visibly emotional, as she addressed the judge, describing herself as manipulated and misled by her husband throughout the illicit activities. “I put my life in his hands and he strung me like a puppet,&#...