Judge refuses to dismiss charges against Menendez on grounds of immunity

A Manhattan judge declined Thursday to dismiss bribery and other charges against New Jersey Sen. Robert Menendez on the grounds that they violate constitutional protections afforded to members of Congress.

The ruling does not address other grounds that Mr. Menendez, a Democrat, cited in his request to dismiss the charges against him, which are still pending in court.

Mr. Menendez could appeal the ruling, which could delay his trial for months. The start is currently scheduled for May 6.

Lawyers for Mr. Menendez had asked the Federal District Court judge, Sidney H. Stein, to dismiss the indictment, arguing that overzealous prosecutors criminalized the normal activities of lawmakers and ignored the protections given to members of Congress under what is known as the “speech or debate” clause of the Constitution.

Lawyers for Mr. Menendez did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This is a developing story and will be updated.