Originally trained by the CIA as an explosives expert, Posada has been the target of federal investigations for attacks dating back 30 years. Unable to indict Posada on terrorist charges, some believe the perjury counts are similar to Al Capone indictment on tax evasion.

Posada enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1963 at the behest of the C.I.A., training in demolition, intelligence and propoganda before quitting after one year to become a paid C.I.A. operative in 1965. Quickly finding more lucrative positions, Posada associated himself with the Venezuelan intelligence service from 1967-1974 before starting a private security agency. Arrested in 1976 for the bombing of a commercial Cuban airliner, he remained in a Venezuelan prison until his escape in 1985, again serving the United States government.

In various interviews with the New York times, Posada admitted to orchestrating the 1997 Havana bombings in which an Italian businessman tourist died. Posada showed no remorse despite revealing the only intent was to scare tourists in an effort to destroy Cuban tourism. “I sleep like a baby,” he stated.

In a 1998 interview with the Times, Posada stated, “The C.I.A. taught us everything – everything. They taught us explosives, how to kill, bomb trained us in acts of sabotage.” His 2000 Panamanian conviction for the attempted assasination of Fidel Castro resulted in his serving four years in prison before a pardon was issued by former President Moscoso.

While the charges the 82 year old faces in Texas do not appear to be on a level as serious as terrorism, prosecutors must prove Posada’s involvement in the terrorist attacks for a court to find him guilty of perjury.

For More Information Please Visit:

CNN – Posada, Anti-Castro Exile And Former CIA Operative, Goes On Trial – 10 January 2011

NY Times – Terror Accusations, But Perjury Charges – 9 January 2011

Washington Post – Fidel Castro’s Nemesis Goes On Trial In Texas – 10 January 2011