A Vietnamese American arrested during a protest of economic policies in Vietnam has received a light sentence and will be returned home.
Bloomberg reports William Nguyen could have received a sentence of seven years in prison. Instead he received the lightest sentence possible, deportation.
“It was absolutely a relief. It’s not only a huge wait but at least we know he`s safe and sound now,” Kenny Nguyen, William’s brother said to CW39.
Nguyen’s sister, Victoria, lead the fight for William’s release.
WILL IS FREE!!!!!
— Victoria Nguyen (@V_AlwaysNguyens) July 20, 2018
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“We are pleased that the case of U.S. citizen William Nguyen has been resolved,” said U.S. Embassy Spokesperson James Thrower to Bloomberg. “We understand from the court’s decision that he will be deported after paying a fine. The United States has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens.”
Nguyen was arrested June 10, the day after arriving in the country for a vacation.
“Will is just a normal guy who didn’t commit any crime. He just attended the protests,” said Nguyen Thi Hien, 54, of Vietnam “Will acted out of his love for his country but the way they treat the trial it is as if he were a dangerous criminal.”
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