The charge was included in a superseding indictment unsealed Thursday in Manhattan federal court, according to the US Department of Justice. Prosecutors allege that Maduro and Flores were involved in a system of repression that used violence, arbitrary detention and torture against political opponents and US citizens held in Venezuela, Al Jazeera reported.
The indictment alleges that the conspiracy operated for more than two decades and involved Venezuelan military, intelligence and law enforcement officials. Prosecutors accuse Maduro and Flores of using state institutions to suppress dissent and maintain their political power.
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According to the indictment, alleged torture methods included electric shocks, beatings, asphyxiation, forced nudity, prolonged isolation, starvation and psychological abuse. Prosecutors also allege that several US citizens detained in Venezuela were subjected to abuse.
In one case cited by prosecutors, a US citizen was allegedly detained by Venezuelan authorities and subjected to repeated beatings and other forms of abuse, resulting in permanent injury. Another alleged case involved electric shocks, simulated drowning and deprivation of food and water, according to the indictment.
Prosecutors further allege that Maduro was personally informed about the treatment of detainees and, in some cases, directed officials to apply additional pressure. Flores is accused of participating in meetings where detainees and their treatment were discussed. These claims remain allegations contained in the indictment.
The new torture charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison under US law, according to the Justice Department. The indictment also maintains existing charges of narcoterrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy and weapons offenses.
Maduro and Flores have pleaded not guilty to the existing charges. Their trial is scheduled for June 1, 2027, according to court proceedings reported by Reuters.
The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The allegations in the superseding indictment have not been established in court.
