Maduro and wife brought before court: Plead not guilty, next hearing in March

(Patria) - Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro appeared before a court in New York for the first time after he and his wife Cilia Flores were arrested by the United States in Caracas two days ago and brought to the U.S. The judge was 92-year-old Alvin Hellerstein.

Maduro was represented by attorney Barry Joel Pollack.

Maduro stated that he is not guilty on any of the four counts in the indictment, which include charges related to narco-terrorism and possession of machine guns and destructive devices.

"I am innocent. I am not guilty. I am an honest man," he said.

His wife also said she is not guilty of the charges against her, and she is accused of narco-terrorism.

Maduro's supporters and opponents had gathered outside the court ahead of his plea.

The attorneys for the defendants emphasized that their clients will not file a bail request now, but will do so later. U.S. media previously reported that it is unlikely bail will be granted to allow the President of Venezuela and his wife to defend themselves from freedom.

Nicolás Maduro was ordered to appear again in court at the next hearing on March 17.