Attorneys for a prominent Florida eye doctor tied to corruption charges against New Jersey Sen. Bob Menendez are presenting witnesses who say he is an innovative physician who doesn't give up on his patients.
A paid consultant testified Tuesday that Dr. Salomon Melgen's treatments for his patients' failing vision were medically sound. Dr. Dana Deupree disagreed with prosecutors who suggested Melgen's tests and treatments were often unnecessary and did little to help many of his patients. Deupree testified that he has received $135,000 from Melgen's attorneys over the years to help with his defense in this case and prior lawsuits.
The 62-year-old Melgen is charged with allegedly stealing up to $105 million from Medicare between 2008 and 2013. He is separately charged with bribing Menendez.
