Former Florida congressman convicted in Venezuela lobbying case
A federal jury convicted a former Florida Republican congressman of acting as an unregistered foreign agent on behalf of the Venezuelan government. The verdict marks a notable milestone in US sanctions-related prosecutions targeting the Maduro administration.
In a Miami courtroom, the former representative was found guilty of holding back-channel meetings with US officials in exchange for hidden payments aimed at softening Caracas's international image. Evidence presented at trial included transfers through linked companies and encrypted correspondence.
Prosecutors said the defendant traded on his Capitol Hill contacts to push for sanctions relief on behalf of Caracas. The defence argued the meetings were legitimate public diplomacy, but the jury rejected the argument.
The verdict comes as the White House sustains pressure on Venezuela. After announcing fresh sanctions on Cuba last month, Washington has accelerated prosecutions related to the Maduro government. The conviction could lead to years in prison at sentencing.
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