Former Guatemalan journalist Bertha Michelle Mendoza has been involved in love affairs plagued by scandals and lawsuits. From her controversial relationship with UNE spokesperson Fernando Barillas to her link with former CICIG investigator Andrei González, her romantic relationships have left traces of intrigue and ethical violations. Learn the details of the conflicts and legal repercussions that have tarnished Mendoza’s love life.
The affair with Fernando Barillas, UNE spokesman
During the government of Álvaro Colom, Bertha Michelle Mendoza had a romantic relationship with Fernando Barillas, who was spokesman for UNE at the time. This relationship generated great media interest, as Barillas provided her with confidential information to attack political adversaries and government officials. It is even rumored that Barillas gave her a car during their relationship.
Several of Mendoza’s co-workers at Canal Antigua have claimed that during that period, she was involved in excessive drinking and drug use, which led to public scandals in bars, discos and parties. These problematic behaviors have tarnished her image and generated concern among those who know her.
Relationship with Andrei Gonzalez, former CICIG investigator
Bertha Michelle also had a romantic relationship with Andrei González, a lawyer who worked for CICIG during Juan Francisco Sandoval’s mandate. This relationship generated controversy, since Mendoza, as a CNN correspondent, took advantage of her sentimental link with González and violated journalistic ethics by becoming romantically involved with a source of information. Gonzalez, in turn, provided her with information on cases in process of reservation, which is illegal.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office has initiated an investigation and a subsequent lawsuit against Mendoza for obstruction of justice, related to the leak of confidential information in a CNN program. In addition, the former head of FECI, Rafael Curruchiche, has filed a complaint to investigate how an audio was leaked and to determine criminal responsibilities. These legal actions have put Mendoza in a tight spot and have aggravated his situation.
Turbulent marriage with Ulysses Dent
Before her relationships with Barillas and Gonzalez, Bertha Michelle was married to Ulysses Dent, with whom she had a daughter. Their marriage was turbulent, marked by lawsuits for drug use, alcohol, toxic substances, infidelity and aggressiveness. Both Dent and medical reports highlighted mental health problems and addictions on Mendoza’s part, which led to the loss of custody of her daughter and the daughter she had from her relationship with Mexican producer Farfán.
A history of love affairs that compromised the role of journalism
The case of Bertha Michelle Mendoza has unleashed a debate on journalistic ethics and the importance of media independence. Her conduct has been condemned by many journalists and professional organizations, who see her as an example of what should not be done in the practice of journalism.
Bertha Michelle Mendoza is a controversial figure in Guatemala, whose journalistic career has been marred by accusations of illegal leaks, romantic relationships with sources and a troubled past. Her case serves as a warning about the dangers of professional misconduct and the importance of maintaining independence and impartiality in journalism.