Former VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe. Photo: Ernice Gilbert/VI Consortium

Mr. Dowe was indicted in mid-March, with prosecutors alleging that he submitted loan applications to Banco Popular containing materially false information in order to refinance existing mortgage loans, had falsely stated his income, and submitted fraudulent lease agreements.

On March 20, Mr. Dowe announced his retirement from VIPA, effective April 10. The case was unsealed on March 23, days after Mr. Dowe’s arrest.

In a 1-page document filed on Tuesday, Mr. Dowe indicated that he was aware of the charges against him and had received a copy of his indictment. He told the court that he is pleading not guilty to the allegations.

Now that the court has knowledge of his plea, Mr. Dowe also indicated that he wanted to waive his right to appear in court at his arraignment. The waiver must now be approved or denied by the presiding judge.