WASHINGTON, D.C. – Marine Sgt. Andrew Tahmooressi was released from a Mexican jail on October 31 after spending 214 days in captivity, the U.S. State Department said.
“We are pleased Mexican judicial authorities ordered Sgt. Tahmooressi released on October 31,” a State Department spokesperson said. “He is now in the United States.”
The spokesperson said that throughout Sgt. Tahmooressi’s incarceration, the Department of State provided consular assistance and followed his case very closely, “communicating with him and family members constantly” and facilitating many visits by U.S. officials, Members of Congress, and family members.
The efforts made by Sgt. Tahmooressi’s family, legal team, and supporters – private citizens as well as from the U.S. legislative and executive branches – to work through the Mexican legal process to resolve this issue have allowed Sgt. Tahmooressi to receive required medical care. It was reported that he suffers from post traumatic stress disorder.
A petition had been sent to the White House asking for more involvement from the federal government in securing Sgt. Tahmooressi’s release. The petition stated :
“Sgt. Tahmooressi, living in a truck having just arrived San Diego to seek VA assistance with PTSD supported by a Purple Heart veteran Marine; a 2 tour OEF meritoriously promoted Sergeant gets lost at the border and with one wrong turns ends up in the Mexico customs lane with no way to turn back. His truck piled high with possessions as he searched housing including his U.S. legally purchased firearms/ ammunition. Not intending to drive into Mexico he explains he is lost. Arrested since 4/1/2014, since incarceration his life has been threatened; sustained a neck wound requiring hospitalization and chained in a 4-point restraint, 26+days. The affect of this unjust incarceration on a decorated combat Marine is despairing. Tahmooressi supported by U.S. Consular Services yet low hope.”
Following his release, Tahmooressi’s family said their “prayers have been answered” and asked for privacy.
