Villagomez appeared with his attorneys David Lujan, Lani Lujan and Joey San Nicolas.
Ramon Quichocho represented Mrs. Santos while Victorino Torres appeared for Mr. Santos.
U.S. Assistant Attorney Eric O’Malley represented the federal government.
Several motions were brought before the judge during the hearing — motions to dismiss indictment; motions to dismiss indictment as to count 1; a motion for bill of particulars; a motion to allow use of jury questionnaire and to allow voir dire by counsel; a motion to dismiss for the government’s outrageous conduct.
The federal government separately filed a motion to dismiss the defendants’ motions for untimely filing.
But the court said this motion is moot at this time.
The rest of the motions will be taken under advisement and a written order will be forthcoming.
Attorney Lani Lujan argued for Villagomez’s motion to dismiss his indictment, but the court asked her if she’s admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Northern Marianas.
She was allowed to appear pro hac vice and was told to submit an application for her future appearances.
Last August, the federal government charged the defendants with defrauding the U.S., wire fraud and theft of federal funds. All three pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Each are out on a $50,000 unsecured bond.
According to the indictment, Villagomez approved purchases of a chemical known as “Rydlyme” from the Santos couple’s distribution company about 10 years ago with mark-up price of 400 percent over cost and continued the transactions for two years.
The chemical wasn’t of any use and could even cause damage to CUC property.
Former CUC Executive Director Anthony Guerrero has said that Villagomez forced him to sign a sole source contract to buy Rydlyme from his sister last year.