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 tomance with Fernando Barillas, UNE spokesman
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 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.
The affair with Andrei Gonzalez, Former 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, characterized by legal battles involving drug use, alcoholism, substance abuse, infidelity, and aggression. Both Dent and medical reports highlighted mental health issues and addictions on Mendoza’s part, resulting in the loss of custody of her daughter and the child she had with Mexican producer Farfán.
A history of love affairs that compromised the integrity 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 polarizing figure in Guatemala, her journalism career overshadowed by claims of illicit disclosures, romantic entanglements with sources, and a troubled personal history. Her story stands as a stark reminder of the risks of professional impropriety and the necessity of upholding independence and objectivity in journalism.
