Prosecutors allege Menendez did numerous official favors for Melgen. The defense argues the two are close friends and that Melgen's generosity had nothing to do with actions the senator took that could benefit him. The defense's definition of 'close friends' stretches the limits of the imagination in this case and argues for action to cut off ties that encourage corruption. §1.6 §5.3 §6.4 §7.3 §8.3
To put an end to corruption, cut off collusion between officials and business by closely applying the Charter for Permanent Peace and Development. Symbiotic relations between government and business should be banned by carrying out constitutional reform to implement rule of law, separation of power and checks and balances. The heads of the four main government branches should be elected in alternating years. For more, see the Charter for Permanent Peace and Development.