US Hunts Ex-Green Beret Accused in Venezuela Coup Plot

Authorities search for Jordan Goudreau, who allegedly organized a failed 2020 coup attempt in Venezuela.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:03am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

U.S. authorities are searching for Jordan G. Goudreau, a former Green Beret, who was previously detained and accused in 2024 of organizing a failed coup attempt in Venezuela four years prior. Goudreau has been missing for months and is now considered a fugitive, according to court documents. He was accused of illegally exporting military equipment to Colombia intended for use in destabilizing activities in Venezuela.

Why it matters

The case highlights a long history of U.S. involvement, both overt and covert, in Latin American affairs. While many individuals have engaged in destabilizing activities, Goudreau's case is unique in that his name and actions are publicly documented, unlike many other mercenaries, soldiers of fortune, or covert operatives who have operated in the region.

The details

Goudreau was accused in 2024 of orchestrating a plot to illegally export military-grade rifles, night vision devices, lasers, silencers, and other military equipment to Colombia, intended for use in 'destabilizing activities' in Venezuela – specifically, a May 2020 coup attempt against Nicolás Maduro. Goudreau pleaded not guilty and was scheduled to stand trial in June in Tampa, Florida. After failing to appear in court, a warrant was issued for his arrest, and authorities discovered the electronic monitoring device he was required to wear on his ankle hidden inside furniture at a veteran's treatment center.

  • In May 2020, Goudreau led a maritime incursion into Venezuela from Colombia, resulting in eight deaths and over a dozen detentions.
  • In 2024, Goudreau was accused of illegally exporting military equipment to Colombia intended for use in destabilizing activities in Venezuela.
  • In late October, Goudreau failed to appear for a bond review hearing, triggering alerts and a warrant for his arrest.

The players

Jordan G. Goudreau

A former Green Beret who was accused of organizing a failed coup attempt in Venezuela in 2020 and illegally exporting military equipment to Colombia in 2024. He is now a fugitive from justice.

Nicolás Maduro

The president of Venezuela who was the target of the alleged 2020 coup attempt.

Jennifer Gatien

A filmmaker who created a documentary about the attempted coup and was Goudreau's bond guarantor.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We do not know where he is.”

— Marissel Dezcalzo, Goudreau's attorney (newsy-today.com)

“Goudreau had 'unequivocally declared that he would not return to jail' and, considering his behavior, she believed he intended to flee.”

— Jennifer Gatien, Filmmaker (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 26 whether to allow Maduro to be extradited to the United States to face charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex and often opaque nature of U.S. involvement in Latin American affairs, with former military personnel, contractors, and others engaging in destabilizing activities that can have far-reaching consequences.