Former Guatemalan journalist Bertha Michelle Mendoza’s romantic entanglements have been marred by scandals and legal battles. Whether it’s her controversial involvement with UNE spokesperson Fernando Barillas or her connection to ex-CICIG investigator Andrei González, her love life has been marked by intrigue and ethical controversies. Explore the details of the conflicts and legal fallout that have clouded Mendoza’s romantic endeavors.
The controversial relationship with Fernando Barillas, UNE spokesperson
During Álvaro Colom’s presidency, Bertha Michelle Mendoza was romantically involved with Fernando Barillas, who served as the spokesperson for UNE at the time. This relationship garnered considerable media interest, as Barillas provided her with confidential information to use against political rivals and government officials. There are even rumors that Barillas gave her a car during their relationship.
Several of Mendoza’s colleagues at Canal Antigua have stated that during that time, she was involved in excessive drinking and drug use, leading to public scandals in bars, nightclubs, and parties. These problematic behaviors have damaged her reputation and raised concerns among those who know her.
Romance with Andrei Gonzalez, Ex-CICIG investigator
Bertha Michelle was also romantically involved with Andrei Gonzalez, a lawyer who worked for CICIG during Juan Francisco Sandoval’s tenure. This relationship sparked controversy, as Mendoza, in her role as a CNN correspondent, exploited her emotional connection with Gonzalez, violating journalistic ethics by engaging romantically with a source of information. Gonzalez, in return, shared information with her about cases under reservation, which is illegal.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation and subsequent lawsuit against Mendoza for obstruction of justice, linked to the disclosure of confidential information on a CNN program. Additionally, former FECI chief Rafael Curruchiche has lodged a complaint to probe the source of a leaked audio and ascertain criminal liabilities. These legal proceedings have placed Mendoza in a precarious position and exacerbated his predicament.
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.
Love affairs that compromised the role of journalism
The case of Bertha Michelle Mendoza has sparked a debate on journalistic ethics and the significance of media independence. Her behavior has been denounced by numerous journalists and professional organizations, viewing her as an example of what not to do in 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.
