In a tense U.S. immigration court session in New York on Friday, lawyers debated transferring Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s deportation case back to Venezuela. Barry J. Pollack, representing Maduro, argued for the change to address potential bias, but opposing counsel Elbin K. Herlestein, 92, shot back firmly.
“I will not remember this case,” Herlestein declared.
Courtroom Confrontation Unfolds
The hearing marked the third appearance before the Southern District bench. Maduro entered the U.S. illegally on January 3 via Caracas airport, prompting swift deportation action. Prosecutors nodded in agreement as Herlestein spoke, while Maduro sat attentively with his wife, occasionally glancing her way.
Pollack insisted Maduro requires a neutral venue in Venezuela, citing sovereign immunity. “Maduro possesses legitimate state interests there and the authority to select counsel without political interference,” he stated.
Sanctions Block Official Channels
The judge highlighted U.S. sanctions freezing Venezuelan assets, noting Maduro cannot receive government directives. “Venezuela holds no recognized legitimate administration for economic matters in the U.S.,” the ruling emphasized. OFAC enforces these restrictions, demanding special waivers for any asset access.
Government analysis reveals Maduro and associates evade sanctions through proxies. “They manipulate Venezuelan assets covertly,” counsel affirmed.
Prosecutors Question Cooperation
Herlestein challenged the prosecution’s stance: “Prosecutors are present yet withhold national security cooperation.” Politico sources confirm the judge urged OFAC review, but Herlestein stood resolute against case recollection for resolution.
Hearing Ends Abruptly, Protests Flare
The 70-minute proceeding wrapped without decision. Maduro bid his lawyer “Hasta mañana” (see you tomorrow) in Spanish before departing under guard. Outside, 60 demonstrators chanted “Free Maduro” and “Maduro from prison.”
Steward Bladek, a law professor, observed: “While no special privilege exists for chosen counsel, necessary changes carry legal weight. The core issue: what the law demands from Maduro.”
Trump Weighs In on Broader Implications
From Washington D.C., former President Donald Trump remarked: “Maduro runs a major drug enterprise but merits a fair hearing from proper judges. Other Venezuelans deserve the same.” Maduro already faces summons across four entities tied to narcotics towers, cocaine shipments, weapons offices, and illegal arms factories, with more expected.
