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Chevron has evidence of Ecuadorian bribes

SAN RAMON, Calif., Sept. 1 (UPI) -- U.S.-based supermajor Chevron provided Ecuadorian and U.S. officials with evidence revealing the details of a $3 million scheme against the company.

Chevron delivered video recordings to authorities that suggest an Ecuadorian judge presiding over an environmental lawsuit was part of a bribery scheme.

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The recordings show Judge Juan Nunez stating he would rule against Chevron in exchange for a stake in the scheme. In addition, Nunez agreed to deny appeals filed by Chevron even though the trial was ongoing, Chevron claims.

The recordings also show representatives allegedly from the Alianza PAIS ruling party in Ecuador seeking $3 million in bribes in exchange for environmental remediation contracts following the verdict.

Charles James, executive vice president of Chevron, said his company would ask for the disqualification of the judge and the annulment of his previous rulings.

"These video recordings raise additional serious questions about corruption, executive branch interference and prejudgment of the case that demand a full investigation," he said. "No judge who has participated in meetings of the type shown on these tapes could possibly deliver a legitimate decision."

The video was recorded by Ecuadorian and American nationals without Chevron's knowledge. Chevron has assisted the Ecuadorian, Diego Borja, with relocation expenses to protect his safety.

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