A group of congress members recently visited Turks and Caicos to address the situation of five American tourists who have been detained on ammunition charges. If found guilty, these charges could result in a lengthy prison sentence of at least 12 years.
On Monday, the bipartisan delegation held meetings with government leaders in Turks and Caicos. During the meetings, they advocated for leniency towards the Americans who unintentionally had ammunition in their luggage.
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Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin, a member of the delegation, expressed his dissatisfaction with the outcome of the meetings. In an interview with “Good Morning America,” he conveyed his belief that a viable solution was not found, leaving them uncertain about their next course of action.
“I felt that they were effectively carrying out their duties by representing Turks and Caicos. When we arrived, our purpose was to represent the United States and express legitimate concerns,” he expressed. “I mean, there are currently five Americans facing charges … and collectively, they possessed fewer than 20 bullets.”
The U.S. delegation consisted of several members, including Senator John Fetterman, a Democrat from Pennsylvania, and Representatives Guy Reschenthaler, a Republican from Pennsylvania, Bob Good, a Republican from Virginia, Josh Brecheen, a Republican from Oklahoma, and Michael Cloud, a Republican from Texas. These individuals represent constituents who are among the detained Americans.
After the meetings, Fetterman expressed his optimism in finding a resolution to the situation.
“We had the chance to meet all the detained Americans, and we found them to be in good spirits, although they are eager to return home,” stated Fetterman. “It’s important to note that these individuals did not intentionally set out to break the law. They are ordinary people who made a mistake and are now facing the possibility of significant prison time as a result. We made it clear to TCI officials that we strongly urge the court to be compassionate and understanding when dealing with this particular case.”
Sharitta Shinise Grier, a resident of Orlando, found herself in a troubling situation during her Mother’s Day trip to Turks and Caicos. On May 13, while going through a routine search at Howard Hamilton International Airport, officials discovered two rounds of ammunition in her bag. As a result, she was charged with possession of ammunition and subsequently released on $15,000 bail. Police sources have confirmed that Grier is required to stay in the Caribbean territory until her case is resolved.
Ryan Watson, a resident of Oklahoma, found himself in a predicament when he was arrested on April 12 after airport security discovered hunting ammunition in his carry-on bag. Ryan, who was accompanied by his wife, was about to board a flight back home when the incident occurred. Although he was released on a $15,000 bond, Ryan is currently unable to leave the islands as his court case is ongoing. In his defense, Ryan stated in an interview with ABC News that he had no knowledge of the ammunition being present in his bag.
Tyler Scott Wenrich, a resident of Virginia, faced charges on April 23 after authorities discovered illegal ammunition during a routine checkpoint in Turks and Caicos while he was on a cruise. According to investigators, Wenrich is scheduled for a plea hearing on Tuesday.
Bryan Hagerich, a resident of Pennsylvania, is currently awaiting sentencing on the islands after admitting to possessing 20 rounds of ammunition. Hagerich, who was apprehended in February, explained to ABC News that he had inadvertently forgotten that he had hunting ammunition in his bag while he was traveling. His next court hearing has been scheduled for Friday.
Michael Lee Evans, a resident of Texas, has admitted to being in possession of seven 9mm rounds of ammunition in his luggage. He is currently awaiting sentencing, which is set to take place on June 18th.
According to Mullin, a family has already exhausted over $100,000 on legal fees, while a father had to borrow money in order to remain on the island as his son’s case unfolds. The father is currently surviving on a diet of hot dogs and rice.
Mullin expressed the urgent need to find a solution to the issue at hand, emphasizing his belief that it is completely unacceptable for an American from Indiana to have already served a six-month prison sentence on the ammunition charge.
In a move to strengthen their gun laws, the Turks and Caicos government implemented stricter regulations two years ago, completely banning civilian possession of firearms and ammunition. Those found guilty of violating these laws are subject to a minimum prison sentence of 12 years.
Mullin emphasized the importance of advocating for greater leniency from Turks and Caicos officials regarding individuals who unintentionally travel with ammunition.
“We attempted to find a middle ground to distinguish between those with criminal intent and those without,” Mullin explained. “However, we were unable to reach a consensus on this matter. Their main argument was to allow the legal system to run its course.”
According to Mullin, the next course of action could involve cautioning American citizens against traveling to and conducting business in Turks and Caicos.
“I believe we haven’t reached that stage yet. However, if we fail to find a resolution, that would be our next course of action,” he commented.
The Turks and Caicos governor’s office issued a statement following the meeting with the congressional delegation. In the statement, they emphasized that the government has strict laws in place to prohibit the possession of firearms and/or ammunition. These laws are aimed at ensuring the safety and protection of all residents and visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands.
The office expressed gratitude for the acknowledgement of the challenges faced by U.S. nationals in such situations. They also acknowledged the consular support being provided by U.S. officials to each of these individuals.
The governor’s office stated that in cases where the court identifies exceptional circumstances, the sentencing judge has the authority to use their discretion in determining a fair and just penalty, which may include a custodial sentence and a fine.
