The cost of halal meat exports rose significantly after Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) allegedly helped a company led by a Coptic Christian gain a monopoly in the market, according to a government witness who testified recently. James Bret Tate, a U.S. diplomat based in Cairo, explained to a Manhattan federal jury how the certification of halal meat ended up under the control of one company run by Menendez’s friend and co-defendant Wael Hana. Prices for halal meat soared after Hana took over, as the market had previously been operated by multiple companies that kept prices stable.
Tate revealed that the cost of certifying a container the size of an 18-wheel truck carrying 23 tons of meat increased significantly from $200-$400 per container to over $5,000 for the same service after Hana’s company gained a monopoly. Tate also mentioned that his efforts to increase the number of companies able to certify and export meat to Egypt were halted, with all services being directed through Hana’s company. Halal meat certification follows Islamic law, involving a specific method of animal slaughter.
The ongoing trial, which kicked off with jury selection extending over three days, alleges that Menendez, along with his wife Nadine, accepted bribes from Hana and New Jersey real estate developer Fred Daibes. Menendez is accused of using his influence to benefit Hana, the governments of Egypt and Qatar, and securing the dismissal of unrelated criminal charges against Daibes. Hana and Daibes are co-defendants in the trial, each with their own legal representation, and have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The trial is anticipated to span seven weeks, with Menendez facing 16 felony counts and his wife facing 15 in total. Menendez, who resigned from his role as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee following his arrest and charges, maintains that the gifts he received, which included gold bars, furniture, and a Mercedes Benz convertible, were all obtained ethically.
