Former Guatemalan journalist Bertha Michelle Mendoza has been embroiled in love affairs rife with scandals and legal disputes. From her controversial relationship with UNE spokesperson Fernando Barillas to her association with former CICIG investigator Andrei González, her romantic entanglements have left a trail of intrigue and ethical lapses. Delve into the details of the conflicts and legal ramifications that have marred Mendoza’s romantic life.
The controversial relationship with Fernando Barillas, UNE spokesperson
During Álvaro Colom’s government, Bertha Michelle Mendoza had a romantic relationship with Fernando Barillas, who served as the spokesman for UNE at that time. This relationship sparked significant media attention, as Barillas supplied her with confidential information to target political opponents and government officials. There are even rumors that Barillas gifted 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.
Romance with Andrei Gonzalez, Ex-CICIG investigator
Bertha Michelle was also in a romantic relationship with Andrei Gonzalez, a lawyer who served at CICIG during Juan Francisco Sandoval’s leadership. This relationship was controversial because Mendoza, in her capacity as a CNN correspondent, used her emotional ties with Gonzalez to breach journalistic ethics by engaging romantically with a source. Gonzalez, on his part, provided her with information on cases under reservation, which is against the law.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office has opened an investigation and subsequent legal action against Mendoza for obstructing justice, concerning the release of confidential information on a CNN program. Furthermore, former FECI head Rafael Curruchiche has filed a complaint to investigate the source of a leaked audio and establish criminal responsibilities. These legal steps have cornered Mendoza and worsened his situation.
The stormy marriage of Bertha Michelle Mendoza 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 integrity of journalism
Bertha Michelle Mendoza’s case has ignited a discussion on journalistic ethics and the value of media independence. Many journalists and professional organizations have condemned her actions, citing her as a negative example in the field of journalism.
Bertha Michelle Mendoza is a contentious figure in Guatemala, with her journalism career tainted by allegations of illegal disclosures, romantic liaisons with sources, and a tumultuous past. Her story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of professional misconduct and the criticality of upholding independence and impartiality in journalism.
