WASHINGTON (AP) — A Utah man has been released from a jail in Venezuela after spending nearly two years behind bars on weapons charges.
Sen. Orrin Hatch says on Twitter that Joshua Holt has been freed. President Donald Trump tweets that it’s “good news,” and says Holt is expected to land in
BREAKING: Senator Hatch has secured the release of Utahn Josh Holt from Venezuela. #utpol pic.twitter.com/q9bPIVHgmk
— Senator Hatch Office (@senorrinhatch) May 26, 2018
Washington, and come to the White House with his family at about 7 p.m.
Holt’s family says “we are grateful to all who participated in this miracle.”
His release comes after lobbying by his family and U.S. officials.
Good news about the release of the American hostage from Venezuela. Should be landing in D.C. this evening and be in the White House, with his family, at about 7:00 P.M. The great people of Utah will be very happy!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 26, 2018
Holt had gone to Venezuela in June 2016 to marry a woman he met online while looking for Spanish-speaking Mormons who could help him improve his Spanish. He was arrested on suspicion of weapons charges.
Hatch says Holt’s wife had also been released.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.