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 expressed understanding regarding the request for Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores to use Venezuelan government funds for their legal defense. Their attorneys sought to dismiss the narco-terrorism charges, citing the US’s refusal to permit the use of funds due to ongoing sanctions. Prosecutors countered by asserting that Maduro had ‘plundered’ Venezuela’s wealth, arguing he shouldn’t have access to its funds for legal expenses.
The 92-year-old Judge Alvin Hellerstein emphasized that ‘the right to defense is paramount,’ indicating he would not dismiss the case solely over the funding dispute. He said he would issue a ruling at a later date, including the next court date. US forces conducted a dramatic nighttime operation on January 3, seizing Maduro and Flores from their Caracas residence and transporting them to New York to face weapon and drug-related charges, which they deny.
During the hearing, Maduro and his wife wore green khaki prison jumpsuits, sitting quietly with several lawyers between them as they listened to the arguments via headphones. This contrasted with their first appearance, where Maduro delivered a lengthy speech claiming innocence and being kidnapped, ending with a courtroom shouting match.
Because of US sanctions, the Maduros required a license to access government funds for legal costs. OFAC initially approved it before retracting the decision. Prosecutors contended that Maduro’s regime’s sanctioned status justified withholding funds, asserting he had access to personal resources to cover attorney fees, which he disputes. Under US legal framework, Maduro would be eligible for a court-appointed lawyer if unable to afford private counsel.
Hellerstein leaned toward the defense’s argument, noting that the unusual case, unfolding in a foreign jurisdiction, would be challenging for a public defender to manage effectively. The prosecutors highlighted the US’s long-standing sanctions during Maduro’s tenure and alleged the couple had ‘plundered the wealth of Venezuelans’ for personal benefit. The judge seemed puzzled, repeatedly asking both sides for clarification on the relief sought.
Residents of Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, expressed anticipation for court developments. Ana Patricia, a 72-year-old retired lawyer, noted that although government censorship exists, the international press ensures the process remains visible.
“They can control what Venezuelan media publish, but not what is published globally,”
she remarked. She also showed some sympathy for Maduro, stating,
“He was a man who had everything but lost it through greed and an inflated ego. I feel sorry for him, but hope he gets a life sentence for his crimes.”
Meanwhile, Agustina Parra, a 67-year-old retired nurse, expressed belief in Maduro’s release, saying,
“Despite his flaws, he hasn’t been entirely wrong.”
The US has charged Maduro with narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine-importation conspiracy, and possession of machine guns and destructive devices. Maduro and his wife have not yet applied for bail, remaining in custody at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center. A trial date has yet to be scheduled.
