American avoids prison in Turks and Caicos ammo case

A Pennsylvania man arrested in Turks and Caicos Islands under under the Caribbean territory's strict guns and ammunition law was sentenced on Friday, but won't have to spend 12 years in prison, the law's minimum sentence.

Bryan Hagerich received a 52-week sentence that was suspended for 12 months, which essentially erases the sentence. He was also ordered to pay a $6,700 fine and will be free to leave for the U.S. upon paying it.

Hagerich's case is one of several involving Americans arrested for having ammunition in baggage that have received national attention — they prompted new travel warnings from federal officials and a bipartisan congressional delegation met with officials in Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Monday to discuss the situation.

Hagerich hugged his wife and parents in court, and his lawyer said he could pay the fine. The hearing was dismissed with a warning from the judge that Hagerich should be more careful. It was followed by tears hugs and goodbyes outside.

“Overwhelming, just joy,” Hagerich said outside of court.  “This is what we’ve been waiting for for the last 101 days and to experience this here and eight short hours to be home and hug my kids, it’s the best day.”

“God is so good,” said his wife, Ashley Hagerich.  

“All of our prayers have been answered,” Hagerich added.

But there's still more work to be done. Severa other Americans remain detained as they await the outcome of their cases.

“Well, obviously, you know we've set some precedent today.  My work, our work is not done until all of them get home,” said Hagerich.

 “ They're our family, we love them and we can't wait till they're reunited with their families,” added Ashley.

Ryan Watson, who was arrested in April, and Sharitta Grier, who was charged earlier this month were in court and happy to see Hagerich's outcome.

“Thankful, thankful, so happy,” said Grier.

“It gives me hope, you know. All Glory to God, you know, that's for sure," Watson said. "He was looking after Bryan today,” said Watson. 

“I think that you know, it's gonna be hard seeing my brother go home, but I also have so much comfort knowing that he's getting to hug his kids tonight. And that's, man, I want that for him almost as bad as I want it for me. So I'm just so grateful that he gets to.”

The premier of Turks and Caicos Islands, C. Washington Misick, said the sentencing represents justice being served.

"As we have said, The Firearms Act includes consideration for exceptional circumstances and today’s decision reflects our commitment to judicial independence along with upholding the law. Residents and visitors can be confident that the Turks and Caicos Islands are dedicated to safety and compassion as we protect the safety and rights of all," he said in a statement.

He also said that islanders appreciate visitors: "I assure all travelers that the Turks and Caicos Islands prioritize hospitality, cultural exchange, and mutual respect. You will find our doors open and our hearts eager to share the warmth and beauty of our homeland. We highly value the trust and confidence travelers worldwide place in us when they choose the Turks and Caicos Islands as their destination."

Misick has previously stated that exceptional circumstances in previous cases not involving Americans resulted in sentences under the 12-year minimum. The governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, said Americans are not targeted by the Turks and Caicos justice system.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., said Friday in a statement that Hagerich's suspended sentence "is great news."

"When we met with TCI officials a few days ago, they made clear that they wanted this situation resolved. They recognized that Bryan and the other detained Americans are not gunrunners – they are just people who made a mistake. I’m grateful that the judge recognized that the right thing to do was to send Bryan home. I’m also grateful to the U.S. State Department which has been a critical partner in bringing Bryan home," he said in a statement, adding that he hoped the other Americans' cases would be expedited soon.

Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) also released a statement:

"While I am overjoyed to see Bryan Hagerich will be returning to Pennsylvania and reuniting with his wife and two children, this terrifying situation should have never happened to him, or the four other Americans still awaiting sentencing. As the Turks and Caicos government works to handle future cases, the British territory must ensure the safety and wellbeing of U.S. tourists. I won’t rest until Americans can once again set foot on their islands without putting their livelihoods at risk."

Hagerich, who played baseball professionally and was once drafted by the Florida Marlins, lives in Somerset, Pennsylvania, with his wife and two young kids. He spent eight days in prison before posting bail and later pleaded guilty, as have three other Americans: Tyler Wenrich, Ryan Watson, Michael Lee Evans.

Grier hadn't entered a plea as of Thursday.