Two American fathers, Ryan Watson and Tyler Wenrich, are facing minimum 12-year prison sentences in Turks and Caicos for unknowingly having ammunition or bullets in their luggage while traveling home. Watson, from Oklahoma, had four hunting bullets in his bag that he used for deer hunting, but doesn’t recall putting them there. He was released on $15,000 bail after being detained, with his wife being released shortly after. Wenrich, from Virginia, was arrested after two bullets were found in his bag upon return from a cruise. Both men were legal gun owners in the U.S. and made it through TSA security without being flagged prior to their trips.
Watson, who flew out of Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, was unaware of the laws in Turks and Caicos regarding ammunition. While staying in Turks and Caicos under the conditions of his bail, he has been in touch with at least five other Americans who are facing similar situations. TSA is investigating the airport he flew out of, and both Watson and Wenrich emphasize the importance of double-checking baggage to avoid such situations. Despite being legal gun owners in the U.S., they were unaware of the strict laws regarding ammunition in the Turks and Caicos islands.
The U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas has a travel alert warning travelers about the strict enforcement of firearms-and-ammunition-related laws in Turks and Caicos. The penalty for bringing firearms or ammunition into the country can result in a minimum 12-year custodial sentence, and the embassy warns that they will not be able to secure release from custody if travelers are found with these items. Watson and Wenrich were both unaware of these laws and expressed regret for the unintentional mistake that led to their detainment.
Valerie Watson, Ryan’s wife, thanked the public and government leaders for their support during this difficult time, emphasizing that their family never intended to cause harm and that they simply want Ryan to come home to be with their children. The Watsons and Wenrichs are set to appear in court on June 7 in Turks and Caicos. Both families express gratitude for the support they have received through prayer, GoFundMe, and efforts from government officials. They hope for a positive outcome in court and a swift resolution to bring their loved ones back home.
Watson and Wenrich, both fathers with young children, now face the possibility of spending over a decade in prison for an innocent mistake made while traveling. The situation has raised concerns about the enforcement of laws regarding ammunition in Turks and Caicos, as well as the need for travelers to be aware of the regulations in countries they visit. The families of both men highlight the unintended consequences of the situation and the impact it has had on their lives and livelihoods.
Despite being legal gun owners in the U.S., both Watson and Wenrich found themselves facing severe consequences due to the regulations in Turks and Caicos. The families emphasize the importance of being informed about the laws and regulations of the countries travelers visit, as well as the need for increased awareness of potential risks when carrying items such as ammunition while abroad. The case serves as a cautionary tale for others who may not be aware of the legal implications of such innocuous actions while traveling internationally.
