What does Acts 25:5 mean?

Two years prior, the Sanhedrin had presented evidence before then-governor Felix explaining that Paul was a menace to society. They claimed that Paul instigated riots all over the Roman Empire, he desecrated a religious structure, and he led a religious cult that was not authorized by the Roman government (Acts 24:5–6). Paul's defense could be summarized by the responses, "No, I didn't," and, "They have no witnesses" (Acts 24:10–21).

Felix realized Paul was right. The Sanhedrin didn't have a case. But he also realized the Sanhedrin was powerful and could cause a lot of problems. Normally, he might send in the Sicarii—political assassins—to kill a few to show them who's boss. Yet, the Sanhedrin's influence on the Jews was too strong. So, Felix refrained from convicting Paul, saying he would wait for the testimony of Lysias, the Roman tribune who had initially arrested Paul and sent him to Felix's custody (Acts 24:22). He didn't know that the tribune was never going to come. Presumably the tribune did not come because he had bound the hands of Paul and almost had him flogged, which were serious crimes against a Roman citizen (Acts 21:33; 22:23–29). But Felix didn't release Paul, either (Acts 24:23–27).

Two years later, Felix has been replaced by Festus. Festus is much more honorable than Felix and eager to start a good relationship with the Jewish leaders. The Sanhedrin asks him to bring Paul to trial in Jerusalem, planning to assassinate him along the way. Festus counters by inviting their representatives to bring their evidence to Caesarea first (Acts 25:1–4). Festus doesn't ask Lysias as he's probably gone. The position of tribune is typically only for a year and at least two years have passed (Acts 24:27).