American citizen Bryan Hagerich managed to avoid a long prison term in Turks and Caicos, thanks to their stringent gun laws. Instead, he will be returning to the United States after paying a fine. Earlier this year, Hagerich was discovered with ammunition in his baggage, leading to his apprehension.
The judge handed down a suspended 52-week sentence to Hagerich on Friday, along with a $6,700 fine. Once he pays the fine, he will receive his passport back and will be able to return to the United States without serving the sentence.
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Hagerich could have potentially received a harsh sentence of 12 years, which is the minimum penalty for possessing firearms or ammunition according to the country’s strict law designed to combat increasing crime rates and gang violence. Nonetheless, the judge recognized the unique circumstances of the case and concluded that imposing the mandatory minimum sentence of 12 years would be unfair and disproportionate to the actual crime committed.
Hagerich expressed his immense joy at being able to return home to his children after paying the fine.
“I’m eagerly looking forward to returning home,” exclaimed Hagerich. “This is the moment we’ve been anticipating for the past 101 days.”
He added, “We are grateful that all of our prayers have been answered.”
In February, the Pennsylvania father of two was arrested on his way back home from a family vacation when authorities discovered ammunition in his checked luggage. He admitted to possessing 20 rounds of ammunition.
In an interview with ABC News, he admitted that he had mistakenly packed hunting ammunition in his bag without realizing it while traveling.
During an interview with ABC News earlier this month, he emphasized his integrity and character, stating, “I did not have intent in this.” His wife, Ashley, joined him for the interview.
The premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands expressed satisfaction with the sentencing, stating that it served as a demonstration of justice in accordance with the law.
Four additional American tourists are facing charges of possessing ammunition in Turks and Caicos. Of the four, three have been released on bail while awaiting further legal proceedings. Two of the individuals have already pleaded guilty and are currently awaiting sentencing. Notably, one of them was permitted to return to the United States for medical reasons.
