Former Honduras President Juan Orlando Hernández Freed by Trump Pardon

UPDATE: Former Honduras President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was sentenced to 45 years in prison for drug trafficking, has been released following a pardon by Donald Trump. Officials confirmed his release from the U.S. Penitentiary, Hazelton in West Virginia, just yesterday, marking a significant turn in a high-profile case that has captured international attention.

Hernández’s wife, Ana García, expressed gratitude on the social platform X, stating, “After almost four years of pain, my husband Juan Orlando Hernández RETURNED to being a free man, thanks to the presidential pardon granted by President Donald Trump.” Her post included evidence of his release, highlighting the emotional toll this ordeal has taken on their family.

Trump addressed the pardon while speaking to reporters on October 15, 2023, claiming he was persuaded by many in Honduras who believed Hernández had been unjustly accused. “The people of Honduras really thought he was set up,” Trump stated, adding that he agreed with their sentiments after reviewing the facts.

Hernández’s attorney, Renato Stabile, noted that while Hernández is relieved that his “ordeal” is over, he could not disclose the former president’s current location. Stabile thanked Trump for what he termed a correction of an injustice.

The dramatic shift comes after Hernández was arrested in February 2022, at the request of U.S. authorities, shortly after the inauguration of current President Xiomara Castro. In a New York federal courtroom, he was found guilty of facilitating the movement of approximately 400 tons of cocaine into the United States, reportedly taking bribes from drug traffickers. Throughout the trial, he maintained his innocence, claiming he was a victim of revenge by those he had previously extradited.

During sentencing, Judge P. Kevin Castel emphasized the importance of accountability for powerful individuals, warning that status does not exempt one from justice. Evidence presented during the trial painted Hernández as a manipulative figure who used his position to protect drug operations while publicly claiming to combat them.

Despite his release, Hernández’s return to Honduras is uncertain. Following the pardon announcement, Attorney General Johel Zelaya stated that his office would seek justice and address any potential impunity, although he did not specify what charges Hernández might face. Various investigations into Hernández’s administration for corruption have lingered without resulting in charges thus far.

As the political landscape in Honduras remains volatile, President Castro, who oversaw Hernández’s arrest and extradition, will maintain her role until January 2024, adding complexity to the situation. The timing of Trump’s pardon just days before Honduras’ presidential election is also under scrutiny, with some suggesting it may have influenced the electoral dynamics.

The implications of this pardon are profound, not only for Hernández and his family but also for the broader implications on governance and justice in Honduras. As this story develops, the international community watches closely to see what actions will be taken next.

Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding situation that continues to resonate both politically and emotionally with many in Honduras and beyond.