Federal Judge Alvin Hellerstein, Who Handled Trump and Maduro Cases, Dies at 92

New York, United States. Alvin Hellerstein, a senior federal judge who handled many prominent cases during almost three decades on the bench, died on Wednesday at the age of 92. A court spokesperson said he was with his family when he died.

Career on the Manhattan bench

Hellerstein joined the federal court in Manhattan in 1998, appointed by Democratic President Bill Clinton. His docket included matters linked to US President Donald Trump and the prosecution of Nicolas Maduro, the ousted Venezuelan leader.

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He was not the oldest judge on the Manhattan court. Still, he was unusual among federal judges because he kept an active caseload into his 90s, whereas most older judges take on fewer cases or retire.

Reassignment of his cases

His remaining cases are expected to be distributed at random among other judges of the Manhattan court. Maduro’s case, which involves torture and drug trafficking charges, has been reassigned to US District Judge Analisa Torres. Maduro has pleaded not guilty, and his trial is scheduled for June.

Tribute from the court

Chief Judge Laura Taylor Swain issued a statement on his death. “Judge Hellerstein was an insightful and dedicated lawyer,” she said. She added that his energetic service to the court lasted until the day he died, and that he is greatly appreciated and will be sorely missed.

Notable trials

Last year, Hellerstein presided over the trial of Charlie Javice, founder of an education startup. She was convicted of defrauding JPMorgan Chase of $175 million.

In 2024, he oversaw the trial of Bill Hwang, who was found guilty of fraud and market manipulation. The collapse of Hwang’s Archegos Capital Management caused banks losses of more than $10 billion.

Cases involving Trump

Hellerstein dealt with several cases concerning Trump. He rejected the Republican president’s attempt to overturn his May 2024 hush money conviction. Trump had sought to move the Manhattan District Attorney’s criminal case to federal court and have it dismissed on grounds of presidential immunity.