Former U.S. Green Beret Accused of Venezuela Coup Attempt Now Fugitive

Jordan G. Goudreau, charged in 2024 for conspiring to export military equipment to Colombia, has been missing for months and is considered a fugitive.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:37pm

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A former U.S. Green Beret named Jordan G. Goudreau, who was arrested and charged in 2024 for conspiring to export military-style rifles, night vision devices, lasers, silencers and other equipment to Colombia to be used for "activities in Venezuela," has been missing for months and is now considered a fugitive, according to court documents filed this week.

Why it matters

Goudreau's disappearance raises concerns about the ability of law enforcement to apprehend fugitives, especially those with military training, and the ongoing challenges in addressing failed coup attempts against foreign governments.

The details

Goudreau, of Melbourne, Florida, was charged in 2024 for the conspiracy to export the military equipment. In October, he failed to appear at a bond hearing, and authorities later found his ankle monitoring device hidden in a piece of furniture. Video footage showed him leaving a VA facility, and the government has been unable to apprehend him despite ongoing efforts.

  • In July 2024, Goudreau was arrested in New York and indicted in the Middle District of Florida.
  • In October, Goudreau failed to appear at a bond hearing, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.
  • The ankle monitoring device assigned to Goudreau was later found hidden in a piece of furniture.

The players

Jordan G. Goudreau

A former U.S. Green Beret who was charged in 2024 for conspiring to export military equipment to Colombia to be used for "activities in Venezuela." He is now considered a fugitive after failing to appear at a bond hearing.

Jennifer Gatien

A filmmaker who made a documentary about Goudreau's coup attempt called "Men of War." She is responsible for Goudreau's bond and believes he intended to flee.

Nicolás Maduro

The president of Venezuela, whose government Goudreau attempted to overthrow in a failed coup in 2020.

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What they’re saying

“I will not go back to jail. I will leave. I'll kill myself. I'm not going back.”

— Jordan G. Goudreau

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.