Federal investigators have uncovered DNA evidence linking a former U.S. Green Beret to the smuggling of 60 automatic weapons from Florida to South America in connection with a failed 2020 coup attempt against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The accused, a decorated former Green Beret, allegedly facilitated the illegal arms trafficking that supported the amphibious raid, resulting in casualties and the imprisonment of individuals involved.
The plot, orchestrated by a group of Venezuelan army deserters reportedly armed and trained by the accused in Colombia, was exposed prior to the incursion. The accused claimed to have acted in collaboration with the Venezuelan opposition and purported ties to the then-President Donald Trump's administration, although no official endorsement of the invasion has been confirmed.
Following the accused's arrest in New York, prosecutors have presented compelling evidence suggesting his involvement in violating U.S. arms control laws and attempting to evade authorities. Alleged actions include transferring funds to cryptocurrency, acquiring a foreign driver's license, and engaging in suspicious border crossings.
Despite the accused's military background and lack of prior criminal record, prosecutors argue that he poses a flight risk due to his expertise in firearms, access to resources, and financial means. The defense maintains that the accused has cooperated with authorities and is not a flight risk.
Evidence to be presented at trial reportedly includes sales records for firearm accessories and devices, some of which correspond to weapons seized in Colombia. Additionally, the accused's DNA was found on weapons assembled at a Florida warehouse linked to the smuggling operation.
The accused and a co-defendant allegedly coordinated the transportation of weapons to Colombia via a private plane and a yacht, with a portion of the arms lost at sea due to a maritime incident. The accused's actions and subsequent legal proceedings are set to be documented in an upcoming film.
If convicted, the accused faces a substantial prison sentence, highlighting the severity of the charges and the potential consequences of his alleged involvement in the illicit arms trafficking scheme.
