NJ dad accused of raping daughters claims judge took bribe in case; judge says claim meritless

Opening statements lead off NJ father’s rape trial

PATERSON, N.J. — Opening statements are under way in the trial of a New Jersey man accused of raping his five daughters and keeping their offspring hidden from society.

Before starting Tuesday, the defendant, through his lawyer, accused the judge of taking $100,000 from another lawyer to bring charges against him.

The judge says the claim has no merit.

Opening remarks were delayed last week after the man told the judge he had been assaulted by a prisoner during transport. A court-ordered examination found no evidence of assault.

The defendant has pleaded not guilty to the 27 sex assault and child endangerment-related charges.

The Associated Press does not identify victims of sexual crimes and is not reporting the man’s name to protect his children’s identities.