Overview
- A 25-page Justice Department indictment alleges narco-terrorism, large-scale cocaine importation and weapons offenses, including claims that traffickers were given diplomatic passports and that activity dates back to 1999.
- The pair were seized in a surprise U.S. military operation in Caracas over the weekend and transported to New York to face federal charges.
- In a brief hearing before Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein, Maduro identified himself as Venezuela's president and a prisoner of war, and the court set the next date for March 17.
- Flores appeared with a swollen eye and bandages as defense counsel requested X-rays for a possible broken or bruised rib and said she remains in good spirits.
- Barry J. Pollack is representing Maduro, and Houston attorney Mark Donnelly filed to represent Flores, with Donnelly saying the judge indicated from the bench that his admission was granted pending the docketed order.