This Friday marks one year since Utahn Joshua Holt was arrested on false charges in Venezuela.
Over the past year, Senator Hatch has worked tirelessly to engage government officials at all levels in both the Trump and Obama administration in an effort to have Josh released and returned home to the United States.
In a statement Hatch said, “This Friday marks one year since Josh Holt was unjustly taken captive in Venezuela. It’s a devastating anniversary, but an important time to remind Josh and his family that we are still anxiously engaged in the fight for his freedom.” Hatch has called on President Maduro to release Josh and Thamy, and has asked for help from Utahns and local and national media to spread the word about Josh’s case.
Full text of Senator Hatch’s remarks on video:
This Friday marks one year since Josh Holt was unjustly taken captive in Venezuela. It’s a devastating anniversary, but an important time to remind Josh and his family that we are still anxiously engaged in the fight for his freedom.
Venezuela is in the midst of tremendous civil turmoil, which has complicated the fragile diplomatic waters of getting Josh released.
From the time of his arrest last June I’ve enlisted help from every level of government, and I’m confident our diplomatic efforts will pay off in time. I remain in regular communication about Josh’s case with Secretary of State Tillerson, Undersecretary Shannon, who I met with just this week, and officials at every level of government here and in Venezuela.
But at this time I ask you to join Elaine and me in remembering Josh, his lovely wife Thamy, his parents Laurie and Jason, and the Holt family and friends in your prayers.
