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
Legal Dispute Over Funds
On Thursday, a judge expressed support for allowing the former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores to use government funds for their legal defense. Their attorneys sought to dismiss the narco-terrorism charges against them, citing the US denial of access to such money due to ongoing sanctions on Venezuela. Prosecutors countered, asserting that Maduro had “plundered” the country’s wealth and should not benefit from it. The 92-year-old Judge Alvin Hellerstein emphasized that “the right to defense is paramount,” but noted he would not dismiss the case solely over the funding dispute.
Context of the Case
Maduro and his wife were seized in a dramatic midnight raid in Caracas on 3 January and transported to New York to face accusations of weapon and drug-related offenses. They have denied these charges. During Thursday’s hearing, the couple sat quietly in green khaki prison jumpsuits, surrounded by lawyers, while listening to translated arguments through headphones. The subdued atmosphere contrasted with their earlier appearance, where Maduro delivered a lengthy speech claiming he had been kidnapped and was innocent.
Sanctions and Legal Access
The legal battle stems from US sanctions targeting Venezuela. To use government funds, Maduro’s team required a license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), which initially granted it but later revoked it. Prosecutors argued that the Maduros could afford personal funds to cover their defense, while the defense denied this. Under US law, a court-appointed lawyer would be available if Maduro couldn’t pay, but Hellerstein leaned toward the defense’s claim that the case’s complexity would overwhelm a public defender.
Public Reaction in Caracas
Residents of Caracas, Venezuela’s capital, have been following the legal proceedings closely. Ana Patricia, a 72-year-old retired lawyer, noted that government censorship hasn’t stopped international coverage. “They can control what Venezuelan media publish, but not what is shared globally,” she said. Despite her concern, she expressed some sympathy for Maduro: “He had everything but lost it through greed and an inflated ego. I feel sorry for him, but I hope he faces a life sentence.” Agustina Parra, a 67-year-old retired nurse, voiced faith in Maduro’s eventual release. “Despite his flaws, he has not been entirely unjust,” she added.
Trump’s Remarks and Next Steps
During a Washington cabinet meeting, President Donald Trump mentioned that the US was considering new cases against Maduro. He also stated that the former leader would receive “a fair trial.” The court has yet to set a trial date, and Maduro’s legal team has not applied for bail. Hellerstein, unsure how to resolve the funding issue, repeatedly asked both sides for clarification on the requested relief. The case remains a focal point for Venezuelans, who await its outcome with mixed emotions.
