Maduro, wife charged with torture conspiracy in US

Former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, face new US charges alleging they conspired to torture political opponents and American citizens while Maduro was in power.

New charges announced

US prosecutors have added a charge of conspiracy to commit torture against Maduro and Flores. The allegations were contained in a superseding indictment unsealed in Manhattan on Thursday and come alongside existing drug-trafficking and weapons-related charges.

Alleged system of repression

Prosecutors accuse the former presidential couple of maintaining power through a system involving political repression, arbitrary detention and alleged torture of detainees, including US citizens. The indictment says the alleged abuses were intended to suppress opposition and protect Maduro’s government.

Torture allegations

The indictment describes alleged methods including electric shocks, beatings, asphyxiation, forced nudity, prolonged isolation, starvation and psychological abuse. Prosecutors also allege that detainees were threatened with the deaths of family members, including children.

Flores also accused

Prosecutors allege that Flores played a significant role in the alleged system of repression. The indictment accuses her of ordering torture in some cases and receiving information about the treatment of individual prisoners.

American detainees among allegations

The new case includes allegations involving US citizens detained in Venezuela. Prosecutors have cited specific cases involving alleged electric shocks, beatings and other forms of mistreatment.

Maduro and Flores in custody

Maduro and Flores have been held in Brooklyn since they were captured by US forces in Caracas in January and taken to New York. They previously pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

Trial set for 2027

The couple’s trial is scheduled to begin on June 1, 2027. The proceedings will address the existing charges as the new torture allegations are added to the case.

Human rights allegations

The new US allegations echo accusations that Venezuelan human rights groups and former detainees have made for years about conditions in the country’s prisons and the treatment of political opponents.

Flores seeks release

Flores has also sought release from detention on medical grounds. Prosecutors have opposed her request, citing concerns including flight risk and public safety.

Case moves forward

The new indictment expands one of the most significant criminal cases involving a former Venezuelan leader in a US court. Maduro and Flores remain entitled to contest the allegations as the case proceeds.