Turks and Caicos amend ammunition law after American tourists' arrests
- Turks and Caicos amend their ammunition law following the arrests of American tourists.
- Previously, five American tourists faced mandatory 12-year prison sentences for ammo offenses.
- The changes come after pressure from U.S. lawmakers and repealing of the harsh punishment.
Several Americans who brought ammunition into Turks and Caicos have faced legal issues, but some have managed to avoid lengthy prison sentences due to exceptional circumstances. Ryan Watson from Oklahoma was fined $2,000 for possessing four bullets in his luggage, but did not receive the minimum 12-year prison term. He expressed his desire to return home to his family. Another American, Bryan Hagerich, was detained for having ammunition in his luggage but was eventually released after pressure from lawmakers led to changes in the law. The updated law no longer mandates a 12-year prison sentence for firearm-related offenses, giving judges more discretion in sentencing. Despite these developments, caution is still advised when traveling to Turks and Caicos. The government of the Turks and Caicos Islands has repealed the mandatory 12-year prison sentence for firearms offenses, following pressure from a bipartisan congressional delegation. The changes aim to ensure a more just and flexible legal system. Other Americans, including Michael Lee Evans and Sharitta Grier, are also facing legal proceedings in relation to bringing ammunition into the country.