US prosecutors argue Maduro ‘plundered’ Venezuelan wealth in court battle over legal fees
US prosecutors argue Maduro ‘plundered’ Venezuelan wealth in court battle over legal fees
On Thursday, a judge showed openness to the claim that former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, should be permitted to use state funds to support their defense. Their lawyers requested the judge to halt the proceedings, citing U.S. sanctions that prevent access to Venezuelan government money. However, prosecutors countered by asserting that Maduro had misappropriated the nation’s resources and should not have the right to use them for legal expenses.
The 92-year-old Judge Alvin Hellerstein emphasized that the right to a defense is fundamental. While he did not immediately dismiss the case, he indicated a decision would follow after further discussion. The couple’s legal team is now engaged in a dispute over whether they can continue their fight in court, with the judge seeking clarity on the potential outcome.
“We are doing business with Venezuela,” Hellerstein remarked, suggesting the foreign policy dynamics had shifted since Maduro’s capture. He noted the Venezuelan government’s willingness to cover legal costs, despite the ongoing sanctions.
Maduro and his wife were apprehended in a sudden midnight raid in Caracas on January 3. They were transported to New York to face charges of weapon and drug offenses, which they contest. During their latest appearance, the pair wore green khaki prison jumpsuits, seated calmly while listening to translated arguments through headphones.
Under U.S. law, Maduro would qualify for a court-appointed attorney if he could not afford private counsel. His lawyer, Barry Pollack, argued that the complex case, unfolding in a foreign jurisdiction, would overwhelm a public defender and hinder effective representation. Prosecutors, however, contended that OFAC had revoked the license allowing the use of Venezuelan funds, citing national security risks and allegations of personal enrichment.
Maduro and his wife have not yet applied for bail and remain in Brooklyn’s federal Metropolitan Detention Center. No trial date has been established. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump mentioned during a cabinet meeting that the U.S. is considering additional charges against Maduro, while affirming his right to a fair trial.
Residents of Caracas Monitor Legal Developments
Local Venezuelans, including Ana Patricia, a 72-year-old retired lawyer, expressed interest in the court’s proceedings. She noted that while government media is restricted, international outlets still report on the case. “They can control what Venezuelan media publish, but not what is shared globally,” she said.
“He is a man who had everything but lost it through greed and an inflated ego. I feel sorry for him, because in the end, he is a human being, but I hope he receives a life sentence,” Patricia added.
Agustina Parra, a 67-year-old retired nurse, voiced hope that Maduro would be released. “Despite his flaws, he has not been entirely unjust,” she said, expressing confidence in his eventual acquittal. The case continues to unfold, with public and political attention focused on its outcome.
