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Ex-Green Berets sentenced to 20 years for Venezuela attack

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CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — A Venezuelan court has sentenced two former U.S. special forces soldiers to 20 years in prison for their part in a blunder-filled beach attack aimed at overthrowing President Nicolás Maduro.

Lawyers for the former Green Berets, Luke Denman and Airan Berry, said they were barred from the secretive jailhouse proceedings Friday night in what they consider a violation of their constitutional rights to a defense.

Maduro’s chief prosecutor announced the surprise decision late Friday night.

“THEY ADMITTED THEIR RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FACTS,” Tarek William Saab announced on Twitter, adding that proceedings will continue against dozens of other defendants accused of assisting in the May 3 raid. He did not offer details.

“Operation Gideon” was launched from makeshift training camps in neighboring Colombia and left at least eight rebel soldiers dead while more than 60 more were jailed.

Ex-Green Beret Jordan Goudreau, who operated a Florida-based security firm called Silvercorp USA, claimed responsibility for the failed attack and had hired his two former army buddies to prepare a small cadre of deserting Venezuelan soldiers living at the makeshift camps. Venezuelan prosecutors have ordered his arrest. Goudreau is believed to be in the U.S., where he also is under investigation f or possibly violating arms trafficking laws in connection to the botched incursion.

Denman and Berry, both decorated former U.S. service members, were found guilty of conspiracy, trafficking in illegal arms and terrorism, Saab said.

But lawyers for the men said the hearing was marred by irregularities.

Alonso Medina Roa said he was hired a month ago by the families of the two Americans but has so far been barred from meeting or speaking with his clients.

In violation of their constitutional rights to a defense, he said, Judge Máximo Marquez never informed him of Friday night’s proceedings at the headquarters of the SEBIN police, where the men are being held. They were represented instead by a public defender.

The two Americans arrested in a coastal fishing community have ever since been paraded by officials on Venezuelan state TV as proof of their long-held claims that the United States is set on violently overthrowing Maduro’s socialist government.

The incident also prompted claims that U.S. backed opposition leader Juan Guaidó had authorized Goudreau through a signed agreement to carry out the attack, executed by two of Guaidó’s former political advisors in the U.S.

U.S. officials have denied any role in the attack but have not said what knowledge they had about the clandestine camps in Colombia, details of which were made public by an AP investigation two days prior to the raid. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington would use all possible means to win the freedom of Denman and Berry.

Mark Denman, brother of Luke Denman, said in a statement that the families were “very disappointed” that the men were not represented by their private legal counsel.

“With the trial behind us, we are now focused on assuring that during their detainment their rights are adhered to. This includes humane treatment, access to adequate medical care, communication with their families and attorneys,” he said.

U.S. officials also have demanded freedom for six jailed American oil executives from Houston-based Citgo, a subsidiary of Venezuela’s state-owned oil monopoly, who had been lured to Caracas for a meeting and then arrested on corruption charges, which all deny.

A day before the two ex-Green Berets were sentenced, the corruption trial began for the so-called Citgo 6. The case had lingered since their arrest two years and eight months ago until former New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson met in July with Maduro in Caracas to urge they be released and returned home to the United States.

Richardson on Saturday said he would also work to free the convicted veterans, who are both natives of Texas.

“Luke Denman and Airan Berry are American citizens and military veterans who deserve our support,” he said. “We will continue our dialogue with the Venezuelans to try to find a way to bring them back home to their families.”

Both cases play out amid hostility between Washington and Caracas. The Trump administration last year threw its support behind opposition leader Guaidó, who has been recognized as Venezuela’s legitimate president by 60 nations pledging to oust Maduro.

Guaidó blames Maduro for the once wealthy nation’s economic and social collapse, while the socialist leader, who is wanted in the U.S. on narcoterrorism charges, says Washington is using Guaidó to steal the nation’s vast oil wealth.

Medina Roa said that while Maduro may be looking to negotiate a political deal with the U.S. for the Green Berets’ release, authorities don’t need to trample further on Venezuela’s constitution to achieve their goals.

“It’s a perversion of justice to violate their constitutional rights for future political gain,” said Medina Roa.

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Florida

Florida Legislative Black Caucus Urges Due Process Amid Calls to Impeach Judge Tiffany Baker-Carper

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Credit: Representative Felicia Robinson

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FNN) — The Florida Legislative Black Caucus says it is aware of recent calls for the impeachment of Tiffany Baker-Carper following the signing of Missy’s Law, according to a press statement released by the caucus.

The caucus acknowledged the seriousness of the concerns raised but emphasized that impeachment should remain a constitutional process rather than a political response.

“We recognize the gravity of these concerns and the importance of accountability in public service,” the statement said. “However, we must be equally clear: impeachment is a constitutional remedy, not a political reaction.”

Facts Before Force

The caucus stated that any consideration of impeachment must be grounded in verified evidence rather than speculation or political pressure.

“Impeachment must be based on verified evidence,” the statement said. “The integrity of our democratic institutions depends on a disciplined commitment to truth.”

Due Process and Fairness

Members of the caucus also stressed the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence.

“Every individual — regardless of position — is entitled to fairness, due process and the presumption of innocence,” the statement said. “Rushing to impeachment without a complete factual record undermines the very justice we seek to uphold.”

Transparency and Public Trust

The caucus said Floridians deserve transparency and clarity as the situation unfolds.

“Any actions taken must be conducted openly, with findings made available to the public to ensure confidence in the outcome,” the statement said.

The caucus urged lawmakers and stakeholders to avoid premature political escalation and instead follow a responsible process that balances accountability with justice.

The Florida Legislative Black Caucus said it will continue monitoring developments and advocate for a process that reflects the highest standards of governance.

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Politics

Donald Trump Marks Policy Shift on Gender Identity, Education, and Federal Programs

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WASHINGTON (FNN) — The administration of Donald Trump announced a series of policy changes affecting federal positions on gender identity, education standards, health care funding, and military service. Officials say the actions are intended to redefine federal policy around biological sex and limit government involvement in gender-related medical and educational programs.

The policy changes follow criticism from Republicans of earlier initiatives introduced during the administration of Joe Biden that expanded federal recognition of transgender individuals in several areas of public policy.

Federal Policy Defines Sex as Male or Female

The Trump administration declared that the official policy of the federal government recognizes only two sexes — male and female — based on biological characteristics.

Administration officials say the policy affects federal documents, agency rules and programs across multiple departments. The move also ended the practice of gender self-identification on certain federal records, including passports, according to officials.

Supporters say the change restores clarity to federal policy, while critics argue it removes recognition for transgender Americans in official government documentation.

Funding and Health Care Policies Adjusted

Federal agencies were directed to halt funding, sponsorship or promotion of certain medical procedures related to gender transition for minors. Administration officials say the directive is intended to prevent what they describe as irreversible medical interventions involving children.

Following the policy shift, several major health systems announced reviews, suspensions or changes to pediatric gender-related medical programs. The administration also directed the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to review existing medical evidence surrounding gender-related care for minors.

Changes in Education, Sports, and Military Policies

The administration also ended federal support for gender identity and equity curricula in public education programs receiving federal funds, stating the move reinforces parental rights and state oversight of school content.

Additional directives address athletic competition and military service. The administration announced policies intended to ensure that women’s sports competitions are limited to biological female athletes and reinstated standards for military service based on biological sex through the United States Department of Defense.

Officials say the changes are intended to focus federal programs on what they describe as fairness, safety and readiness across government institutions.

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Central Florida News

Christine Moore Earns Endorsements From Five Former Orange County Commissioners in Apopka Mayoral Race

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APOPKA, Fla. (FNN) — Apopka mayoral candidate Christine Moore has secured endorsements from five former Orange County Board of County Commissioners members, strengthening her campaign ahead of the city’s April 14 runoff election.

Former county commissioners Rod Love, Dr. Robert Sindler, Victoria P. Siplin, Betsy VanderLey and Scott Boyd announced their support for Moore, citing her leadership, collaborative approach to governance and commitment to improving the quality of life for Apopka residents.

ENDORSEMENTS FROM FORMER COUNTY LEADERS

The five former commissioners said Moore’s record of leadership and community service makes her well-qualified to lead the city of Apopka.

Rod Love, a former Orange County commissioner from Apopka, said Moore understands the importance of supporting seniors, helping small businesses grow and creating safe environments for children.

“Commissioner Christine Moore understands that a strong Apopka means taking care of our seniors, supporting small businesses and investing in children,” Love said. “She brings the experience, compassion and leadership Apopka needs.”

FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Former Commissioner Dr. Robert Sindler praised Moore’s environmental leadership and her efforts to expand outdoor recreation opportunities in the region.

Sindler highlighted Moore’s commitment to completing local trail systems and using the West Orange Trail as a catalyst to help revitalize downtown Apopka. He also pointed to her work supporting conservation land purchases, expanding county parkland and advancing septic-to-sewer conversions to protect water quality and Florida’s Class I springs.

COLLABORATION ON COMMUNITY POLICY

Former Commissioner Victoria Siplin said Moore demonstrated strong leadership through collaboration when the two worked together on issues impacting the Pine Hills area.

Siplin noted their joint efforts to improve infrastructure and expand services for residents, as well as policy initiatives allowing faith-based organizations with larger land holdings to build affordable housing.

RECOGNITION FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND GOVERNANCE

Former Commissioner Betsy VanderLey credited Moore with working diligently to secure funding and services for residents in her district.

VanderLey pointed to Moore’s role in advancing the $125 million septic-to-sewer infrastructure projects and described Moore as strategic and thoughtful in her governance approach.

Former Commissioner Scott Boyd added that Moore’s ability to listen to constituents and collaborate with colleagues stood out during their work on school zoning issues.

“Her collegiality and willingness to listen to all sides before making decisions impressed me,” Boyd said. “I recommend Christine Moore for mayor of Apopka.”


MOORE RESPONDS TO ENDORSEMENTS

Moore expressed appreciation for the support from the former county commissioners, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in public service.

“I am grateful for the support of these outstanding and accomplished county commissioners,” Moore said. “Serving collaboratively has resulted in much success for county residents. It takes collegiality, patience and persistence to make progress in our community. It was my honor to work alongside them.”

Moore’s campaign said the endorsements reflect growing momentum from community leaders, residents and advocates focused on preserving Apopka’s character while planning responsibly for the city’s future.

The Apopka mayoral runoff election is scheduled for April 14.

Moore made history as the first woman elected to represent District 2 on the Orange County Commission and previously served on the Orange County School Board. During her tenure in county government, she helped lead major infrastructure initiatives, including the $125 million Wekiwa Springs septic-to-sewer conversion project in Apopka.

Moore holds the Advanced Certified County Commissioner (ACCC) and Certified Board Member (CBM) designations and is a graduate of the University of Michigan.

#Apopka #ChristineMoore #ApopkaMayorRace #OrangeCountyFL #FloridaPolitics #Election2026 #LocalGovernment #FNNNews

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