KTRV Fox 12 Haitian Judge OKs Release of Detained Americans

Haitian Judge OKs Release of Detained Americans

Haiti -- Almost two weeks after being charged with kidnapping and criminal association, a judge said 10 missionaries should be freed from a Haitian jail.

Supporters of Baptists from New Life Children's Refuge aren't celebrating yet, but it does have some people in Haiti and here at home a little more optimistic than last week.

That's because for the 10 Americans -- eight from Idaho and five from the Treasure Valley -- a three week stay in a Haitian jail might be coming to an end.

"If the release of the Americans is granted, they will be able to leave the country, as long as their attorney provides guarantees for them," said Haitian Judge Bernard Saint-Vil.

"I hope that the prosecutor will not take too much time to make his decision so that the judge can make his decision," said Gary Lassade, an attorney for one of the detainees.

Saint-Vil has been hearing testimony from the group, and Thursday recommended all be released while an investigation continues.

The Baptists were arrested on Jan. 29 trying to take a busload of Haitian kids into the Dominican Republic, but have said it was a well-intentioned rescue mission.

Here at home, the announcement changed the tone at Central Valley Baptist Church in Meridian, where Pastor Clint Henry spoke, with Mel Coulter, father of detained Baptist Charisa Coulter, by his side.

"We understand that judicial proceedings take time and even though we wanted them home yesterday, we'll be just as glad to have them home tomorrow," Henry said.

The recommendation is not final. A prosecutor can appeal the judge's decision.

The U.S. Congressional delegation is working to make sure the Americans are being treated fairly, and Congressman Walt Minnick says they just want a quick answer.

"We are hopeful that he will agree with that magistrate, and that they'll soon be released and on their way home," said Minnick.

The church, which has been reluctant to comment on the situation, now seems eager to speak, hoping to deliver some good news.

"Perhaps our next press conference will have the news we have waited for each day this week," said Henry.

The ultimate decision on whether or not the group should be set free is in the hands of the judge.

A release would not necessarily mean the kidnapping charges against the group would be dropped. Judge Saint-Vil said a release may not mean they could leave Haiti, so a lot still has to happen for the group to come back to the U.S.