Cilia Flores, the wife of former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro, is requesting to be released from a New York jail, citing serious health problems. Both she and Maduro are facing major drug smuggling charges in the United States.
According to media reports, Flores's lawyers argue that heart problems, a 25-pound weight loss, and injuries sustained during her arrest make her continued detention unsafe. They are pushing for her to be placed under house arrest instead of remaining in jail.
She and her husband could face life sentences if convicted. Both have pleaded not guilty, claiming the charges are politically motivated. They were arrested last year in an international operation.
Prosecutors, however, are opposing her release. They argue that she is a flight risk and could pose a danger to the public. They maintain that adequate medical facilities are available in the jail to manage her health conditions.
The case against Maduro and Flores has been part of a oader U.S. pressure campaign on Venezuela's socialist government. Washington has accused the Maduro administration of human rights abuses, corruption, and narco-trafficking.
A court hearing to decide on Flores's release request is scheduled for today, Thursday, October 8. The court's decision could have a significant impact on the high-profile case.
Source: Media reports
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