The legal team representing Cilia Flores, wife of the former Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro, appeared before a federal judge in New York on Thursday to formally request her transfer from the detention facility where she is held to house arrest.
Flores' defense attorneys cited severe cardiac issues and a weight loss of 25 pounds (approximately 11 kilograms) since her incarceration, as reported by AP News.
The hearing took place in front of U.S. District Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein of the Southern District of New York. Judge Hellerstein will decide if 69-year-old Flores can be released from the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn to live under 24-hour armed surveillance in a private residence.
If granted, Flores would be subject to GPS monitoring, restricted visits, and intercepted calls, with all associated costs borne by her.
The defense argued that Flores suffers from a mitral valve prolapse, episodes of ventricular tachycardia and arrhythmias, and possibly experienced a mild heart attack on July 29, according to external medical consultants.
An April stress test at Brooklyn Hospital Center was halted due to chest pain, and three cardiologists have recommended a cardiac catheterization that has yet to be performed.
Her attorneys also highlighted that Flores experiences "persistent dizziness, vertigo, and difficulty breathing," and has sustained permanent scars after being "thrown against a wall or dresser" during her capture in January.
Regarding the risk of flight, the defense maintained that Flores is "committed to supporting her husband with her constant presence."
Prosecution's Strong Opposition
The Southern District of New York's prosecution formally opposed the request on September 23, labeling Flores as an "extreme flight risk and danger to the public."
Prosecutors argued that Flores faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 40 years if convicted—which at her age would effectively be a life sentence—providing a strong incentive to flee.
They also warned that, if released, Flores "could attempt to directly intimidate witnesses and victims" in Venezuela, noting that she has received medical care at a local hospital when necessary.
Potential New Charges for Torture
Flores and Maduro were apprehended at their Caracas residence during a nighttime operation on January 3, 2026, described by the Trump administration as a "surgical law enforcement operation."
Both face charges of narcoterrorism and cocaine importation and have pleaded not guilty.
Meanwhile, federal prosecutors are preparing new charges related to the alleged torture of over a dozen American citizens detained in Venezuela.
This group includes former Marine Matthew Heath, who was imprisoned for 752 days and reported experiencing waterboarding and electric shocks, and Osman Khan, who was held for 259 days. All were detained at facilities run by the DGCIM, an agency the UN has described as responsible for systematic torture.
A Stark Contrast
While Flores seeks the protections of the U.S. judicial system, the Chavista regime she was part of systematically denied these rights to its own political prisoners.
Maduro's son recently expressed concern over Cilia Flores' condition. "She has a very delicate heart issue," said Congressman Nicolás Maduro Guerra, who also revealed that Flores is asthmatic and suffered a respiratory episode following the use of pepper spray at the MDC.
As of this publication's deadline, Judge Hellerstein had not yet issued a decision.
The next significant legal event is scheduled for November 17, when motions concerning sovereign immunity will be addressed, with the trial set for June 1, 2027.
Key Questions About Cilia Flores' Legal Situation
What health issues is Cilia Flores experiencing?
Cilia Flores is reported to have severe cardiac issues, including mitral valve prolapse, ventricular tachycardia, arrhythmias, and possibly a mild heart attack. She also suffers from persistent dizziness, vertigo, and breathing difficulties.
Why is the prosecution opposing Flores' transfer to house arrest?
The prosecution opposes the transfer, arguing that Flores is an extreme flight risk and poses a danger to the public. They also cite her potential to intimidate witnesses and victims if released.
What charges are Flores and Maduro facing?
Flores and Maduro are facing charges of narcoterrorism and cocaine importation. They have both pleaded not guilty.