New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez's strategy of blaming his wife in bribery trial may have pitfalls

Washington — During the first five weeks of Sen. Bob Menendez's bribery trial, his attorneys have peppered government witnesses with questions aimed at shifting the blame to the New Jersey Democrat's wife, Nadine. 

Legal experts say Menendez's strategy is not unique, but could backfire with jurors. 

"An empty-chair defense when a spouse is involved is somewhat risky, because some jurors can view the defendant blaming their spouse unfavorably, and that potentially can affect the overall perception of the defense," said Luke Cass, a former federal prosecutor who handled corruption investigations into government officials.