Venezuelan Tycoon Charged in $1.2 Billion Money Laundering Scheme

Raul Gorrin Belisario, owner of the Venezuelan television network Globovisión, has been charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering in a scheme allegedly involving over $1.2 billion in illicit funds from Venezuela's state-owned oil company, Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA). From 2014 to 2018, Gorrin and his associates are accused of paying millions in bribes to Venezuelan officials to secure foreign currency exchange contracts, subsequently laundering the proceeds through shell companies and offshore accounts. This operation reportedly funded luxury purchases in South Florida and other locations. Gorrin faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison if convicted but is currently a fugitive, having previously been indicted in related cases. The Justice Department emphasizes its commitment to combating foreign corruption and safeguarding the U.S. financial system from exploitation. The ongoing investigation is part of a broader effort to tackle money laundering linked to Venezuela's political and economic crisis.