Federal prosecutors have formally expanded their case against former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, by adding charges related to the torture of individuals held in state custody. These new allegations follow the couple's arrest and transfer to the United States earlier this year, where they are already facing charges involving narcoterrorism and weapons trafficking.

Maduro and Flores entered pleas of not guilty to the initial drug and weapons charges during a court appearance in January. The addition of torture-related charges marks a significant escalation in the U.S. government's legal efforts to hold the former leader accountable for alleged human rights abuses. The prosecution characterizes these actions as part of a broader pattern of abuse of power during Maduro's tenure. The defense maintains that the charges are unfounded, and the legal proceedings are ongoing as the court evaluates the evidence presented by the Department of Justice regarding the treatment of prisoners under the Maduro administration.