Former U.S. Senator Bob Menendez was sentenced to 11 years in prison after being convicted of corruption for accepting bribes, including gold bars, cash, and a luxury car, in exchange for using his political power.

Judge Sidney Stein condemned Menendez for betraying public trust, noting the severity of the corruption.

Menendez, who was found guilty on all 16 counts, maintained his innocence, calling the case a “political witch hunt” and pledging to appeal.

Two New Jersey businessmen convicted of bribing him also received prison sentences, ABC News has reported.

The U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York emphasized that the case was a clear abuse of power.

Written by B.C. Begley