Almost a year after the tragic suicide of Cuban-American real estate mogul Sergio Pino, two individuals have confessed in federal court to being part of an alleged criminal conspiracy orchestrated by the millionaire to target his wife. The case, which has sent shockwaves through Miami's community due to its legal, personal, and financial implications, revolves around claims that Pino organized a network to intimidate, harass, and even attempt to kill his wife, Tatiana Pino, amid a divorce battle involving assets exceeding $165 million.
Guilty Pleas and FBI Cooperation
On Wednesday, Avery Bivins, aged 37, and Michael Dulfo, aged 43, admitted involvement in the plot to intimidate Tatiana Pino, as reported by Telemundo 51. According to a source close to the case, both men have reached plea agreements with the prosecution, requiring them to actively cooperate in the investigation, particularly against other defendants who have not yet pleaded guilty. Sentencing for Bivins and Dulfo is scheduled for July 8.
A pivotal piece of evidence against the defendants was a monitored video call made by Bivins to co-defendant Fausto Villar, a former prison acquaintance. During the recorded conversation, which was presented in court, Villar described how his benefactor—identified by the FBI as Sergio Pino—became agitated upon learning that several accomplices had been arrested. This conversation was crucial; shortly thereafter, the FBI launched an operation to arrest Villar and Pino. While Villar was apprehended, Sergio took his own life upon the agents' arrival at his home.
A Fortune at Stake and a Foreseen Tragedy
The legal conflict between Sergio and Tatiana Pino escalated dramatically when an accused party revealed that Tatiana had turned down a $20 million settlement offer in the divorce negotiations. Court documents suggest that the total estate, including properties and trusts, might exceed $165 million. In the final months—or possibly days—of his life, Sergio restructured or modified some of these assets, sparking a fierce legal battle over Tatiana's inheritance rights.
Alongside the civil lawsuit, a criminal investigation led by the FBI was underway, culminating in multiple arrests and the tragic suicide of Sergio Pino, who shot himself as federal agents arrived for a search.
The Criminal Network: Intimidation, Assassination Attempts, and Poison
Federal charges allege that Sergio Pino organized two criminal groups intended to intimidate or eliminate his wife. One faction was led by Fausto Villar, a former convict for armed robbery and a roofer at the family residence. Authorities claim Villar told Bivins that Sergio was willing to pay up to $300,000 for Tatiana's murder.
The other group, as identified by the FBI, was organized by Bayron Bennett, an employee on the Pino family's yacht. This group allegedly considered using poisons, including opioids like fentanyl, to execute the crime. Michael Dulfo is linked to this cell and is accused of multiple intimidation acts: he allegedly set fire to Tatiana's sister's cars and rammed her vehicle after a divorce hearing in Pinecrest in August 2023.
One of the most alarming incidents occurred in June 2024, when Tatiana was confronted by an armed man at her home entrance. Although the assailant did not shoot, he threatened one of the couple's daughters by pointing a gun at her before fleeing. Vernon Green, another accused individual, is identified as the presumed perpetrator of this failed murder attempt. Green has a criminal record for attempted murder and armed robbery.
Potential Sentences and Legal Ramifications
In total, nine men are implicated in the case, several facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder for hire, a crime potentially punishable by life imprisonment under U.S. federal law. Among them are Villar, Bennett, Bivins, Green, and at least two others from Villar's group. The length of the sentences will depend on factors such as the severity of their actions, cooperation with authorities, and criminal history. Meanwhile, the case continues in both the criminal arena and the civil dispute over Sergio Pino's vast estate.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sergio Pino Conspiracy Case
What was Sergio Pino accused of?
Sergio Pino was accused of organizing a criminal conspiracy to intimidate, harass, and potentially assassinate his wife, Tatiana Pino, during their divorce proceedings.
Who are Avery Bivins and Michael Dulfo?
Avery Bivins and Michael Dulfo are two individuals who pleaded guilty to participating in the conspiracy against Tatiana Pino and are cooperating with the FBI.
What was the role of Fausto Villar in the conspiracy?
Fausto Villar, a former convict, allegedly led one of the criminal groups organized by Sergio Pino to target his wife, including planning her murder for financial gain.