NEW YORK (AP) — In a startling development, three men were apprehended on Monday for allegedly attempting to bribe a juror in the Brooklyn drug trial of former heavyweight boxer Goran Gogic. The offer included $100,000 in cash, prompting a federal judge to dismiss the jury just as opening statements were set to begin.
Federal prosecutors confirmed that an anonymous jury will be arranged when Gogic’s trial resumes after a 30-day recess. Judge Joan Azrack scheduled a conference for December 17.
Gogic, hailing from Montenegro, is accused of conspiring to smuggle an astonishing 20 tons (18.1 metric tons) of cocaine to Europe from Colombia, utilizing commercial cargo ships to facilitate his operations. He has entered a not guilty plea to the charges against him. His lawyer, Joseph Corozzo, was unreachable for immediate comments.
The charges against the three men stem from their alleged attempts to approach a juror and solicit a not guilty verdict in exchange for the large sum of money, Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Navarro informed the court. Concerns were raised about how these individuals may have acquired jury details, possibly through connections related to the trial.
Among the arrested was Mustafa Fteja, who was released on a $150,000 bond following a court appearance on Tuesday. His co-accused, Valmir Krasniqi and Afrim Kupa, remain incarcerated as proceedings unfold.
Authorities reported that none of the accused were required to enter pleas during their initial appearances, while their lawyers have yet to provide comments.
Describing Gogic as a dominant force in the drug trafficking world, law enforcement officials highlighted that he allegedly orchestrated the smuggling of cocaine on a grand scale, often from South American ports. He fought professionally between 2001 and 2012, holding a record of 21 wins, 4 losses, and 2 draws, with a height of 6-foot-5 and a weight range between 227 and 250 pounds.
According to court documentation, the bribery scheme was reportedly orchestrated over the course of several days leading up to the trial. Fteja was already familiar with one juror, designated as 'John Doe #1', calling him multiple times prior to their meeting, where he clearly articulated the corrupt proposal.
At stake are severe ramifications for Gogic, who faces charges of violating maritime drug laws. A conviction could cement a sentence ranging from 10 years to life in prison. Investigators allege that Gogic coordinated with numerous crew members aboard vessels to facilitate the covert transfer of cocaine during their voyages.
The investigation has already led to major seizures, including over $1 billion worth of cocaine intercepted at shipping ports previously. Federal agents detained shipments with impressive quantities of drugs, affirming the extensive operations Gogic is believed to be engaged in.
