Judge refuses to dismiss narcoterrorism case against Nicolas Maduro and his wife

"Judge Alvin Hellerstein, presiding over the case, stated, 'I am not going to dismiss the case,' during the second hearing against Maduro and Flores."

"Maduro entered the courtroom smiling but appeared nervous, frequently fidgeting, while his wife remained more composed throughout the proceedings."

"The hearing dedicated nearly an hour to discussing the freezing of Venezuelan funds intended for Maduro's defense, highlighting the complexities of their legal situation."

"The Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control initially granted permission for the couple to use Venezuelan government funds for their defense but revoked it shortly after."

Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores appeared in a New York court facing charges of drug trafficking, weapons possession, and corruption. Judge Alvin Hellerstein denied the defense's request to dismiss the case. Maduro appeared nervous and thinner than in previous hearings. The hearing was delayed due to the judge's late arrival and focused significantly on the freezing of Venezuelan funds for their defense. Although OFAC initially granted permission to use these funds, it was revoked shortly after. The couple's legal battle is expected to be lengthy and complex.

Read at english.elpais.com