honduras Ex-President Juan Orlando Hernández released After Trump Pardon
NEW YORK - Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández was released from a U.S. federal prison today following a pardon granted by former President Donald Trump days before Honduras‘ recent presidential election. Hernández, 55, had been serving a 45-year sentence after being convicted in March 2023 of drug trafficking and corruption.
Hernández was arrested in February 2022, shortly after leaving office, at teh request of the United States. Prosecutors alleged he accepted millions of dollars in bribes from drug traffickers to facilitate the movement of approximately 400 tons of cocaine through Honduras to the U.S. Throughout his trial, Hernández maintained his innocence, claiming he was targeted by drug cartels he had worked to extradite.
During sentencing, U.S. District Judge P. Kevin Castel stated the punishment was intended to deter others in positions of power from believing their status protects them from legal consequences. The judge cited evidence demonstrating Hernández used his nation’s security forces to protect the drug trade while publicly portraying himself as an anti-drug crusader.
The pardon has sparked controversy in Honduras,where Attorney General Johel Zelaya stated via X (formerly Twitter) that his office remains obligated to pursue justice and end impunity. While no specific charges have been announced, Zelaya indicated potential investigations related to corruption during Hernández’s two terms in office. President Xiomara Castro, who initially arrested and extradited hernández to the U.S., will remain in office until January.
The timing of the pardon injected a new dynamic into the Honduran election, potentially benefiting National Party candidate Nasry Asfura, according to some observers.
Hernández cooperated with U.S. authorities under three presidential administrations, according to his own testimony, and stated, “And I looked at the facts and I agreed with them.” His immediate future and potential return to Honduras remain uncertain.
