Political Junkie

Political Junkie

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American Jailed in Venezuela To Be Released

A Utah man who was detained on weapons charges for two years in Venezuela is finally coming home. Joshua Holt was detained in 2016 after the Venezuelan government accused him of using his wife's apartment in Caracas to stockpile weapons. 

Holt's wife, who was also detained, was freed along with her husband. 

"We are grateful to all who participated in this miracle," Joshua Holt's family said in a statement.

The 26-year-old Holt went to Venezuela to marry his girlfriend who he had met online, as well as connect with Spanish-speaking Mormons to work on improving his Spanish. He had planned on spending several months in Caracas while waiting for his wife and her two daughters to obtain their visas and they could return with him to the U.S.

However, the couple never made it. In June, Venezuelan authorities arrested the husband and wife, accusing them of stockpiling weapons at their apartment just outside of Caracas. Authorities suggested they were trying to undermine President Maduro's rule. 

President Trump cheered Holt's release on Twitter Saturday morning, saying he and his family were expecting to arrive at the White House that night. 

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!

Looking forward to seeing Joshua Holt this evening in the White House. The great people of Utah are Celebrating!

"We thank you for your collaboration during this time of anguish. We ask that you allow us to meet with our son and his wife before giving any interviews and statements. We are grateful to all who participated in this miracle," said the Holt family.


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