Maduro enters a not-guilty plea in a U.S. court, claiming he was “captured” 

January 5,2025

RED FM News Desk

Deposed Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro appeared in a U.S. courtroom Monday for the first time to face narco-terrorism charges that American authorities used to justify capturing and transporting him to New York. 

Maduro and his wife attended a short but mandatory hearing that begins what could be a long legal battle over whether he can be tried in the United States. Prosecutors allege that Maduro, along with his wife, son, and three others, worked with drug cartels to move massive quantities of cocaine into the country — charges that could carry life sentences if proven. Maduro pleaded not guilty, and he and his wife were escorted out after the hearing. 

During the proceedings, defense lawyer Barry J. Pollack argued that Maduro is the head of a sovereign state and should receive the protections that come with that status, adding there are serious questions about the legality of his military capture. He warned the court to expect extensive pretrial motions on those issues. 

The session ended after lawyers said Cilia Flores, 69, may have injured ribs and may need medical imaging. Both she and Maduro agreed to remain in custody for now, with the option of revisiting bail later. Prosecutors said they were officially taken into custody late Saturday, shortly before their arrival in New York.