Banker’s Bid to Toss Bribery Indictment Denied, At Least For Now

An international banker accused of paying bribes to government officials, including former Puerto Rico governor Wanda Vázquez-Garced, lost—at least for now—his bid to dismiss criminal corruption charges.

The US District Court for the District of Puerto Rico is waiting to rule on some of Julio Herrera-Velutini’s claims of outrageous government conduct, including his claims as they pertain to previously severed counts. But the court rejected the arguments it did reach.

Herrera-Velutini—the ultimate owner of San Juan-based Bancredito International Bank & Trust Corp.—alleged the government attempted to influence him through cooperating witnesses, knowing he was represented by counsel. He also ...