WASHINGTON—Zachary Wilson, a Keithville, Louisiana, native detained by Guatemalan authorities since March 2017, returned to the United States today. While attempting to return to the U.S. at the conclusion of a mission trip with the Word of God Church, authorities discovered old hunting ammunition in Wilson’s bag and placed him under arrest. Since then, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and U.S. Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04) worked to secure Wilson’s release.
“It is fitting that Zachary Wilson arrives home the day before Thanksgiving,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We do give thanks—to Zachary for the mission that brought him to Guatemala; to Ambassador Espina and the Guatemalan government for expediting his judicial process; to the American embassy staff; and most of all to his wife Lisa and the many others who supported Zachary and prayed for resolution. Congressman Johnson and I were privileged to be involved.”
“My colleagues and I have worked tirelessly with the Guatemalan authorities to ensure the safe and timely return of Mr. Wilson,” said Rep. Johnson. “I am pleased that all of our efforts have paid off and so he can finally come home. I would like to thank Senator Cassidy, Guatemalan Ambassador to the U.S. Manuel Espina, U.S. Ambassador to Guatemala Todd Robinson, and their staffs for their assistance and continued engagement in this matter. All of us look forward to welcoming Zack back to the United States.”
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