Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores Face Brooklyn MDC Treatment
Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have transitioned from the Venezuelan presidential palace to the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York. They are among the latest high-profile detainees in this notorious facility, renowned for its challenging conditions.
Life at Brooklyn MDC
The Metropolitan Detention Center is characterized by substandard living conditions, according to federal prison consultant Sam Mangel. Inmates face uncomfortable environments with minimal heating and inadequate ventilation. Each inmate receives one wool blanket and must sleep on a thin mattress atop a metal slab.
Segregated Housing
Both Maduro and Flores are likely isolated from the general population in a segregated area. Mangel indicates that housing them together is unlikely due to security concerns. Maduro’s profile presents a potential risk, as other inmates may have affiliations with gangs or cartels.
Previous Environment
Before their capture, Maduro and Flores resided at Miraflores Palace, a grand presidential residence known for its neoclassical architecture and spacious grounds. Their current environment starkly contrasts with their former luxurious lifestyle.
Legal Proceedings and Rights
In their initial court appearance in New York, the couple pleaded not guilty to accusations of drug and weapons offenses. They opted not to contest their detention for now. The presiding judge informed them about their rights as Venezuelan citizens to communicate with their consular officials.
Limited Contact and Recreation
While detained, Maduro and Flores have restricted opportunities to meet and may only see each other during pre-arranged attorney visits. They potentially have access to a small recreational area and can engage in structured exercise, receiving health personnel visits daily.
Conditions in the Special Housing Unit
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Wake-up Time | 6 a.m. |
| Outdoor Exercise | Five hours per week |
| Daily Health Visits | Yes |
| Locked Cell Time | Up to 23 hours a day |
| Legal Call Access | Limited |
Conditions in the MDC’s Special Housing Unit (SHU) are particularly strict. Inmates often face solitary confinement, with strict protocols governing their movement outside their cells. Notably, the facility has experienced severe issues in the past, including violence between inmates.
Security Measures
Due to security concerns, especially following the high-profile death of Jeffrey Epstein, Maduro’s handling reflects cautious protocols by prison officials. Experts assert that MDC prioritizes safety, ensuring inmates like Maduro are isolated from potential threats.
