Father faces prison after violating new law in Turks and Caicos

Oklahoma father Ryan Watson was celebrating his 40th birthday with his family in Turks and Caicos, but now he’s facing a possible prison sentence after deer hunting bullets were found in his bag. The local government recently tightened its laws in 2022 around firearms and ammunition. NBC’s Sam Brock reports for TODAY.
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#TurksandCaicos #Oklahoma #WorldNews

[@cloverconnections]

Americans are shocked when other countries actually uphold their own laws. Hmm .....

[@Gee-xb7rt]

I have no idea why these people have made national news, lots of Americans jailed in foreign countries for breaking laws, its usually only makes national media for a narrative if its a country like Russia or North Korea, I know they are trying to push a narrative but I have no idea what it is, don't travel with bullets seems like common sense.

[@DocJerky]

Why not? People come here and aren't punished for breaking our laws.

[@lv6slime321]

I am more concerned over shocked that TSA allowed him to have ammunition

[@screamneagle8420]

We’re just shocked for such a harsh penalty over a very petty supposed crime!

[@trumpbidensameclub6668]

You will be in prison soon.

[@coryjackson3131]

Warning all countries you travel to have strict laws about guns and ammunition. You should always check your bags before traveling.

[@phobicx5999]

How did he get out of the US Air port with bullets 😮

[@JuniAllen]

Bullets aren't prohibited. Especially if there is no weapon

[@-Zevin-]

Past the "highly trained" American TSA? lol You should read some up on "Security theatre" if you want to be terrified. There has been cases where people were authorized to test the TSA and got fully loaded guns past them no problem, right in their carry on bags...

[@seanjohn83]

This!!!!

[@jmc4935]

You can carry bullets in checked bags but not carry ons.

[@Arnold-l1k]

I worked as a security contract officer during the 90s at Hartsfield International Airport. During our training we were trained to watch our baggage scanner image for loose items in a carry-on including bullets. And on more than one occasion we specifically asked did you completely empty this bag before you packed it? And on more than one occasion we watch the passenger turn absolutely pale as they realize they didn't clear the bag fully before they decided to reuse it for another trip always take the time to check the US Department of State website on travel advisories in terms of restrictions and cautions for the location you're going to . Going to your location and finding yourself dealing with law enforcement and saying I forgot or I didn't know isn't an effective excuse if you can search for everything else on the internet you should remember to check for this well before you leave .

[@selanryn5849]

Responsible gun owners secure their weapons AND ammunition.

[@screamneagle8420]

Even responsible people make small mistakes. Please tell me what harm a few cartridges of ammunition in luggage can possibly do especially if there isn’t any guns involved.

[@SuzyEH]

​@@screamneagle8420He could give or sell the ammo to someone that has a gun.

[@RealBHS]

@foxdragon88 Just ask your mom.

[@adama7070]

@@screamneagle8420 This is not in your country, you have no power over it just watch ... but your opining is welcome even if it s not matter at all. He broke a law in another country. he was irresponsible case closed.

[@jpjones5880]

My boss had a round fall into the side of his bag and now's he's on a permanent list with homeland security. You clearly do not own or use firearms.....period. your ignorance is glaring

[@Elizabeth-n3v2u]

You have to follow the law when abroad. Its simple. Also, if you have kids at home, its REALLY irresponsible to not check and double check all ammo and guns are secured. When my friend was little, he found a live bullet, took it to the basement and hit it with a hammer because he saw it in a cartoon. It made him permanently deaf in one ear, hes lucky there wasnt a worse outcome.

[@bjvu9460]

Lol. I tried that and it fired. But that was not due to seeing it in cartoons

[@AnneliseBlackbriar]

Exactly!

[@justmejenny7986]

Sick of seeing this all over media. I don't care and I think most don't. He broke a law in another country. Seriously; he was irresponsible case closed.

[@inimueh]

…..or he really just forgot there were some hunting bullets in a suitcase pocket, honest mistake without intention of causing any harm. It could have happened to anyone. I seriously doubt he intended to break any law.

[@lv6slime321]

You should care that TSA didn't catch him having ammunition while leaving the country

[@mik3ymomo]

Ammo is useless without a firearm. 12 years is nonsense.

[@Luisjusthere]

12 years for a handful of bullets and NO gun? That TSA also failed to see? I get some countries laws are tougher but moments like these some exceptions gotta at least be made, make him pay a hefty fine for bringing in only bullets do an investigation on him to see he’s a law abiding citizen with no prior records but 12 years? Come on now.

[@SuzyEH]

​@mik3ymomo Doesn't matter as he could have given or sold the ammo to someone that does have a weapon.

[@tybryga86]

Ignorance is not a defense. Read the laws before going to another country.

[@tdexter4959]

"Read the laws"?! Are you serious? Do you know how many years and how many attorneys would be involved in attempting that?

[@shindrithargriethrat8408]

@Honeymybiscuits What are "firearm papers"?

[@shindrithargriethrat8408]

@Honeymybiscuits Depends on where you buy the gun. If you buy it off a private citizen you don't sign papers. Also, those papers don't tell you what the law in Turks and Caicos is. I was on Grand Turk with a cruise, I made sure to stay on the beach and close to the ship.

[@shindrithargriethrat8408]

@Honeymybiscuits Logic really isn't your strong suit, I gather.

[@dillon17]

@@reactivepall3589 You just proved the point of the comment. He was ignorant, he didnt store his ammunition properly, and is now paying for his ignorance. Simple as

[@uttblackboard]

Homie should be glad he isn't in Singapore.

[@robertscott8226]

I once threw a bunch of garbage and chewing gum into the streets In Singapore just to spite their stupid laws.

[@chad017]

@@robertscott8226no you didn’t

[@MccabbeRunescape]

They were warned before they left the country. His mistake, let him go to prison. If it happened here people wouldnt even bat an eye. They'd want him arrested.

[@inimueh]

A mistake. He shouldn’t spend 12 years in prison for not checking well is suitcase before leaving.

[@lv6slime321]

TSA sure didn't warn him 😂

[@MccabbeRunescape]

@@inimueh should if he passed 3 Displays at airports warning of the new law change in the contry they were headed to. Like saying i made a mistake by getting drunk and killing a bus full of kids so i shouldnt be punished cause it was a mistake. Gotta live up to your actions.

[@screamneagle8420]

@@MccabbeRunescapeA few cartridges of ammunition in a travel bag isn’t even close to getting drunk and driving and killing people.

[@jamesrodriguez5297]

Let me guess OP, you’re not a gun owner

[@caddie1a]

Violate another country’s laws & face the punishment. It’s not hard…

[@sean2015]

Except if that country is the U.S. and you're here illegally...

[@darrintonsmith8]

People with kids go to prison everyday in our insane country.

[@johnrawlings2161]

For real reasons, this is a little ridiculous!

[@leighannsoles8432]

@@johnrawlings2161 nobody wants to import American gun culture.

[@aisoaification]

​@@johnrawlings2161No its not, they broke that laws laws. Irresponsible behavior breeds consequences.

[@MrSetinel]

Your fault for not checking your bags before travelling.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

Would you say the same thing if the person was close to you? I get he made a mistake, but have some empathy, he literally forgot something in his bag and you're basically saying "oh well, 12 years in jail"

[@andrewedris2800]

They are like that couple who show up for an international airline flight without ID or passports. Can't fix stupid.

[@shindrithargriethrat8408]

You need to do a video on what it's like to be absolutely perfect and never make a mistake.

[@sean2015]

@@shindrithargriethrat8408 you need to guess how many times I've shown up for an international flight and forgotten to bring my passport? Hint: it's a whole number less than one.

[@shindrithargriethrat8408]

@@sean2015 What does that have to do with the price of tea in China, kiddo? There's a difference between forgetting to bring something and accidentally having a bullet or two in a bag.

[@andrewedris2800]

@@shindrithargriethrat8408 I am not sure you understand the entitled mentality of American consumers. Where else on the planet do people need to be reminded to NOT to bring weapons, ammunition, explosives, generally hazardous materials on flights, and need to be reminded they need accepted ID, and passports to board international flights. There are no excuses. The gentleman will eventually let go without serving 12 years, he should go on the no fly list for some years. As mentioned elsewhere US TSA reports ~6000 attempted transport of weapons on flights in the USA. We have a seriously self-entitled dementia problem among our citizens.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

Yeah but stupid doesn't deserve 12 years in jail

[@Native722]

You gotta dump your bag out before traveling.

[@jamesrodriguez5297]

Let me guess , you’re not a gun owner

[@frankc.astle214]

@@jamesrodriguez5297lol what? how does that comment make ang sense?😂

[@Chipotle14]

​@@jamesrodriguez5297lol if someone's a gun owner then they DEFINITELY should be dumping their bags out before traveling international borders. If you're that ignorant, just stay at home, I think the rest of the world would prefer that too lol.

[@jjthefed]

I dump TWICE, shop vac TWICE, and flashlight check TWICE!

[@solomongrundy1467]

​@@jamesrodriguez5297I'm a gun owner and would be aware if bullets are in my suitcase. When i get home from traveling i always empty my suitcase.

[@uttblackboard]

I'm sorry I forgot I have weed, cocaine and ammunition in my suitcase. Please release me because I'm a white American.

[@shindrithargriethrat8408]

@@ChadBoss-qr4hl Bingo. We all know who possesses the actual "privilege". 13/50.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

Man those poor kids who are going to grow up fatherless and then stumble upon these comments where people are just trashing the father

[@andrewedris2800]

TSA teports 6000 incidents annually of knuckleheads trying to take personal guns and ammo on airline flights. Apparently the penalties are very light.

[@GBL99999]

Nobody cares, he broke the law lock him up. Why should he get special treatment?

[@lv6slime321]

He can't put a basketball in a hoop, so they won't care about him

[@PaulFormentos]

@@lv6slime321 Also wrong shade

[@GBL99999]

@@PaulFormentos lol yeah he is an oppressed yt guy we all know how much injustice they suffer

[@tamlynn786]

@@PaulFormentosHis whi privilege card got revoked. 😂😂 Poor thing! What ever will he do?

[@Skylizard-vb7wl]

I guess people are shocked when other countries up hold there laws!

[@eddiearmijo6635]

If He were Black or Latino this would not be a Story.

[@PaulFormentos]

Not true, in that case Biden admin. would be racing to get them released

[@phill2035]

Oh yeah. Brittney Griner ring a bell for you.

[@BubbyBold]

​@@phill2035yeah, and I remember people overwhelmingly saying she should be punished for braking the law

[@bjvu9460]

They are trying to use his whiteness to gain sympathy and while it may have been an oversight by him, the law doesnt care and they would have prosecuted a person who is a resident of that island . So, if they let him go because of his claim, why wouldnt anyone else claim become valid and at that point, what would be the point of them having that law. They dont know the reason behind him having the bullets and its hard to prove intent without an action but what they do know is, they made a law that you can not carry weapons or bullets into or out of the country without declaring it

[@crosisofborg5524]

@@BubbyBoldbreaking, not braking genius.

[@grli293]

Be a lil more responsible

[@ronaldpershing8633]

lock him up

[@sarahnichols9639]

Why would anyone going on vacation pack ammunition? Your an adult take responsibility for your actions.

[@elizabethheyenga9277]

maybe listen to the video to learn he didn't know the bullets were in there, obviously left from a trip where he did pack ammo. People take vacations and hunt or shoot targets or whatever....

[@sarahnichols9639]

@@elizabethheyenga9277 I take trips too and guess what I unpack ALL my stuff when I get home. And I’m an adult who takes responsibility for my actions. And I’ve traveled to foreign countries and I abide by their laws when I’m in their country.

[@inimueh]

He didn’t pack ammunition, he forgot a few bullets in his suitcase. Someone shouldn’t spend 12 years in prison for that. Unless they proof he intended to commit a crime on the island.

[@lv6slime321]

I am wondering why TSA allowed him to have ammunition

[@sarahnichols9639]

@@inimueh see above

[@therobnest]

How did he get on the airplane in the USA?

[@CorritOUT]

Exactly!!!

[@ChiquitaMia-ci2vg]

Maybe he checked in his luggage. You can put guns and ammunition in check in luggage.

[@therobnest]

@@ChiquitaMia-ci2vg you can? 😳

[@alos.h256]

It's the US lol.

[@KeeAnaTaylor]

DOUBLE CHECK UR BAGS!!!

[@preciousowusu7743]

He doesn't recall putting the ammunition in the bag but some how it got in there you put it in the bag but forgot they were in there.

[@lv6slime321]

An article I saw said it was ammunition from a past deer hunting trip. I am curious why TSA didn't catch it

[@elizabethheyenga9277]

Remember the teenager who died in Korea for putting up a flyer. Different countries don't care that we're American, often they don't like us. You leave a joint or bullets in your luggage in another country, it can be bad.

[@screamneagle8420]

They don’t like us but they’ll gladly take our money.

[@-Zevin-]

@@screamneagle8420 You say that like it's surprising, that's basically Hawaii and it's a US state lol.

[@therobnest]

Or that boy who was publicly flogged! Ugh his Parents had to watch. Terrible.

[@khalidnamar8723]

You should know what you're babbling about. The American in North Korea was arrested for allegedly stealing a poster. Even so, it's not worth a beating and years in prison.

[@RealBHS]

@@screamneagle8420 And you gladly give it to them.Don't like it? Don't go there.

[@quesadilla79]

Their kids arent safe if hes that wreckless with his ammo and weapons 😮

[@teddymarian9416]

youre absolutely correct, very good point

[@kitty4lifesk150]

Yea this sucks, but at the end of the day ya just gotta be more careful when you travel.

[@ronaldpershing8633]

lock him up asap

[@lv6slime321]

Need to investigate the TSA agents that let him get on a flight with ammunition in his baggage

[@alistairbeadle6650]

So if I get caught coming into the USA with fricking bullets in my bag, can I claim "exceptional circumstances" too???

[@nahitsmedical]

No need, you ain't going to jail.

[@jmc4935]

Not as long as they're in your checked bags. Can't have ammo in your carry on.

[@frankielogan1863]

Nothing will happen to you, they’ll just take it away.

[@Luke.Cooking]

That privilege don’t work elsewhere don’t it homie?

[@johnengland8619]

There needs to be a warning label on ammo boxes. This stuff is illegal in most countries

[@Luke.Cooking]

@@johnengland8619 how is this different than Britney griner?

[@shamioshi]

@@Luke.Cooking it isn't. who said it was?

[@hostnik777]

@@Luke.Cookingno one ever killed anyone with weed

[@AndrewDaniele87]

​@@hostnik777 from google: The percent of crash deaths involving cannabis more than doubled from 9 percent in 2000 to 21.5 percent in 2018

[@sabrinacampos857]

I have no sympathy 😒

[@jjthefed]

Not even a tiny bit?

[@redrambler2000]

I feel the same way about abortions, no sympathy and dont care.

[@Ymmij1976]

Hope something like this never happens to you

[@sabrinacampos857]

@@sir.fender6034I actually do. The reason I have no sympathy for this guy is because I don’t support hunting I think hurting animals for fun is cruel. Also every country has their own laws he should of checked before going there.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

​@sabrinacampos857 how do you know he's hurting animals for fun? Where did it say that in the video? People hunt for food still

[@JohnSmith-k1x]

Although this is a very disappointing story for this couple, but at the same time it confirms the ignorance of Americans who fail to follow through with making good life choices, It is always the responsibility of everyone to thoroughly vet any issues concerning your actions before you take those actions. This action could have been avoided if this couple had done there due diligence before making this trip. Remember there is no excuse for an honest mistake, It is your responsibility to make sure your actions coincide with the laws were ever you go

[@Anne-always]

If he is this careless it makes me wonder if his 🔫 🔫 ammo are even secured at home. Bet it's not the 1st stupid thing hes done, but the first time there have been repercussions. FBI should check his home if he wants help.

[@lv6slime321]

Also confirms that TSA is allowing ammunition on flights out of the US

[@JohnSmith-k1x]

@@lv6slime321 not if they went on a cruise to there destination

[@JohnSmith-k1x]

@@Anne-always I agree, I mean who packs there own suitcase and fails to know what is in it

[@DL-cs6fz]

People need to take responsibility for their actions. Especially when going to another country. You are responsible for your luggage. He deserves punishment for HIS ACTIONS. Not checking your luggage is negligent, NOT a mistake. You are subject to the laws of other countries when you leave the USA. Another entitled person refusing to act like an adult.

[@natosuperman1]

Its your bag you need to check it

[@lv6slime321]

TSA needs too as well...

[@therobnest]

How come our metal detectors in the USA didn’t catch the bullets?

[@krimsonedit3272]

The deer celebrate

[@camposa9173]

Karma

[@Precursor-co7up]

🙌 🦌

[@AndrewDaniele87]

​@@camposa9173 are you vegetarian?

[@Comm0ut]

You have to be a fool not to completely purge your luggage before international travel. Stupidity should be painful so there would be less of it. Field stripping your luggage before air travel is pretty basic. I do it and it's not rocket surgery. Place empty luggage on floor, go through all of it then load with what you're allowed. He's lucky he didn't try transiting Dubai etc with cannabis crumbs or other residue because they REALLY don't play. If you're not smart enough to manage that, buy fresh luggage and clothing for your travels (not kidding if you are flying out of a place where a particular drug is legal but transiting elsewhere).

[@younglife4089]

I feel really bad for them. It was obviously an honest mistake and I pray they are not jailed for long. But just because Americans own guns legally its not the same for many countries infact outside America no normal citizen has ever hold a gun or seen it. Hopefully they get released soon coz 12yrs is very extreme.

[@jacobstrouble6631]

Remember when the WNBA player got jailed in Russia for weed and **some** Americans thought she deserved it? There is no sympathy for this couple.

[@arkwill14]

And a lot of *other* Americans, to include our President, thought the US should move heaven and earth to get her released, even if it meant releasing a notorious arms dealer in the deal. ...And they succeeded.

[@jacobstrouble6631]

​@@arkwill14 The Americans who wanted her to suffer are the same type to travel with ammo and not be held accountable.

[@gloriawelch3603]

You are responsible for everything you carry into another country. But this doesn't make sense. Who would pack luggage, to go overseas, without cleaning out that bag, first? Ridiculous.

[@lv6slime321]

Depending on the travel bag, could have multiple folds and pockets. I have had things stuck between a fold in my travel bag that has a reinforced bottom. I am curious how TSA didn't catch it

[@MrLoekanle]

This happened to me in Mexico, I had some ammo in my backpack from when I went hunting didn't know it was in there got arrested no firearms just 2 spare bullets

[@scottjohnson9225]

Sorry, but how can somebody not know what is on their person?

[@krystalMtn]

I forgot it was in there is no excuse and completelty irresponsible! Beyond that, how are so many people getting caught having used a case or bag previously used for carrying ammo also as their vacation luggage?! You use a designated bag for ammo or guns you may transport, and that's its only use. That's how you know that case or bag is going to either have ammo in it or will have had ammo in it at some time and should be checked to ensure there's none still in there in need of being locked up once you're at home. Common sense that many responsible gun owners might practice. Especially ones with kids, as most these people seem to have.

[@rexmasters1541]

If you do not check you baggage before you go on a trip its all ON YOU!!!!!! He put the bullets into HIS bag. Blame him and nobody else.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

So 12 years is justified?

[@harrw3168]

​@@AndrewDaniele87YES

[@JPLPizJPL]

But when it's Brittney Griner they have no empathy

[@pureblood369]

Right

[@shad0wCh8ser]

I think the difference is she's an Olympian. If it was Michael Phelps, they do the same. If you're a no body, you're on your own. That's how it's always been.

[@_gonna_renew_my_sinew]

@@shad0wCh8ser lol what is this comment.

[@redrambler2000]

You got it backwards. Griner broke the law in the same way effectively, and the white house brokered her release. You watch and wait to see when the white house tries to help this guy out, it wont ever happen. Face it, Griner got better treatment than this guy will get.

[@sbreheny]

I think both cases involve excessive prosecution.

[@Leidyloveslibros]

Imagine being an irresponsible gun owner and then playing the victim because your broke VERY STRICT laws in another country. Smallest violin. My brother in law is a certified gun instructor and let me tell you...he is not impressed by this couple and their excuses.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

I mean, it sucks, but still should have some empathy for them, even if they aren't the smartest .. being stupid took 12 years away from their child's early lives of having a father .. if I were in his shoes, I'd be heartbroken at this and trying to figure out how to get out of it too, 12 years is a crazy amount of time for a mistake that didn't harm anyone .. in fact the punishment is doing all the harm to those children

[@vivavasquez]

how do we know he was not there to eliminate someone ?

[@redrambler2000]

Who cares?

[@hostnik777]

Because we would never have heard of him if he was

[@jordanongelstern]

Ryan Watson didn't do his research before travalling shame on him!!!

[@elizabethheyenga9277]

or didn't check his bag carefully before packing more like it

[@screamneagle8420]

Do you carefully check every single law in every city, state, county or country you travel to? I highly doubt it. It’s a stupid law to begin with. Nonetheless , it is a law. However, common sense and compassion should prevail. He obviously had no ill intent. It was an obvious oversight. Ask yourself how many crimes you’ve actually committed willfully or accidentally over your lifetime, aware or unaware. We’ve all gotten lucky at some point in our life time.

[@shamioshi]

@@screamneagle8420 You're right. It would be impossible. However, if you're traveling INTERNATIONALLY, you AT LEAST check for travel advisories issued by your own gov't b/c that will warn you what you should be aware of. A basic "do's and don't in..." KZbin search will also help. And if you are a responsible gun owner who has ever traveled w/ firearms and/or ammo, you ALWAYS check every state, county and country to know what the laws are and you definitely double check your luggage.

[@guitarexpert2245]

@@screamneagle8420 He didn't do his research before Traveling or he would have seen the US Embassy warnings to check bags ammunition. Must check US Embassy about any country you travel too.

[@LMay64]

I'm glad this is being reported nationwide. It serves as a cautionary tale, even if there is no intent. Everyone must be accountable for their own actions and mistakes. He claims he didn't realize he had ammo in his duffle. I'm sorry, but ammo should be accounted for at all times, even on a deer hunt. When I travel abroad, I'm especially intentional about everything in my bags and how it is packed to get through airport security. His mistake was clearly avoidable and he'll need to be strong now to get through the legal process in another country. I'm sure if he is honest and meets the "exceptional circumstances" applied to past people in this same country, he'll be fine. It's a terrible lesson to learn. For all of the gun supporters and enthusiasts who disagree with the charges, I'd ask them what they would do with others flying into our country with similar contraband? Just to say people get away with it here is not truly an honest response. Turks and Caicos just did what they should be doing and set an example of how all airport security should perform.

[@londonxiong7245]

You thinking I'm not checking for medication in my bag before I get on a plane? Think again!

[@dougslaback3459]

Simple mistake??? Why was he not stopped before he boarded the plane with ammo? I have no sympathy for them for breaking another countries law. It is IGNORANCE and that is not an excuse. BeforeI travel I go and see if State Department has info on where I am going.

[@guitarexpert2245]

right on bro!

[@AndrewDaniele87]

So if this happened to someone close to you, would you still have no sympathy?

[@guitarexpert2245]

@@AndrewDaniele87 I never said I have no sympathy. It's horrible. But it's horrible too that he traveled after the crap we saw with Brittany Grinder that one wouldn't check the US Embassy about travel there stating no ammuniton get 12 years. Now he has No choice . I don't understand stupidity.,

[@JOHNHEALY-mg2xy]

LET HIM STAY IN JAIL.

[@inimueh]

Seriously, his mistake was to not properly check his bag. He should not spend 12 years in prison for that.

[@JOHNHEALY-mg2xy]

@@inimueh LET HIM STAY IN JAIL. BAD KARMA

[@redrambler2000]

Lock up hillary instead.

[@ronaldcoates7228]

Lock him up , you broke the laws of another country period . Being ignorant and forgetful is no excuse when you’ve broken the law , that only seems to work here in the US of A for certain folks , oh well law and order has spoken loud and clear ! 💯🤔🤷🏾‍♂️⏳

[@patrickm7754]

I’m a legal gun owner but I get why they take it very seriously over there. The island only has 50k ppl…if they never took action they’d just have ppl running guns and ammo into the country left and right. Next thing they know the country has an armed group that could challenge governance

[@altheafitzgerald]

Americans need to respect other people countries. i believe they think only their country deserve respect. Americans need to read and acknowledge peoples rules, it may be a small island but for god sakes they have rules. third word dont mean they are dumb. not everywhere is a free for all and controlled by USA. I hope this is a lesson for all.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

How do you know these Americans were not respecting the rules and simply didn't know the rule and because they didn't know the rule they didn't even think to check the bag for bullets? (It can be in a compartment that never gets opened so they didn't think to check while stuffing their clothes in)

[@SteveSmith-hh2ni]

I guess other countries don't want to cower in fear with guns everywhere, like here

[@lilyann168]

There is something to be said about arrogant americans waltzing into other countries thinking there is no need to check on local laws...I think that is a valid conversation. However 12 years is freaking excessive for what he did. Thats like what you would get for attempted kidnapping or something.

[@shamioshi]

Excessive is relative. It may be excessive in the US where guns are legal and common. In a country where owning guns and ammo is illegal; a foreigner bringing in ammo could be firearms trafficking. 12 yrs is a penalty designed to make people STOP doing it. (the penalty used to be a fine and that obviously wasn't enough to stop people from doing it)

[@surajantony2727]

Americans being entitled and oblivious is not a new thing.

[@g.g.harrison5949]

Btw anyone else notice that the NRA has not said anything to come to his defense?!?! Im enjoying this!! Lol

[@RealBHS]

They'll meet behind closed doors and hammer out a nice vacation package for the NRA's upper echelon.

[@g.g.harrison5949]

Lol

[@HollieHolliewood]

I mean, you can't cross state lines in America from one state where things are legal into another where they aren't and not risk being jailed for the offense. This happens everyday in America and no one cares what the laws are in the state you're from. States and local governments expect anyone entering their jurisdiction to abide by their laws. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.

[@shamioshi]

Say it again for the ones in the back yelling "its not fair". and crying a river.

[@User12347ejdj]

You don’t need to carry bullets. Irresponsible parents.

[@arkwill14]

So _you_ think this guy "needed" to carry bullets (but, curiously, no gun) and tucked a few in his bag on purpose?

[@adammarkowitz7944]

This is sad, but, dude, is it too much trouble to check your bag for....bullets? You know, bullets for a hunting rifle, which can also be used for killing humans. After all, you planned an elaborate trip, to a far-off paradise, with another couple. Could you possibly take the time to make sure there are no bullets in your bag? Customs agent: "Yes, sir, toothbrush, comb, nail clippers, large caliber bullets, shampoo...BULLETS????" Oooof.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

I can see how this can be something someone overlooks, especially if he had used the bag ages ago for hunting and didn't suspect it would have bullets at all, and if he didn't suspect it or even think about bullets, there's nothing to pop into his head to say "oh, I better check this bag for bullets"

[@Bigand788]

The fact he never checked the bag before leaving home anyways shows they didn’t bother to read up on it

[@thatsjarrod1965]

Where does the "let Brittney Griner rot in Russia" crowd stand on this

[@skycloud7637]

The word "foolish" comes to mind. Stupid is as stupid does.

[@fantym-1]

American exceptionalism in action. Make me an exception to your laws, coz I'm American

[@pimpchez]

Show some compassion people! It was an honest mistake. Y’all act like y’all want the guy to do 12 years for this “crime”. I guess he was going to throw the bullets at people 🙄. Also he was leaving the island on his way back to the states, imagine if it was your loved one

[@jjthefed]

Before I went to China I flipped my travel gear inside out and shop vacced them TWICE as well as conducted two visual inspections with a flashlight. I still had a speed strip show up over there...lol...But it is not considered a fire arm or ammunition. I doubt they knew what a 5 shot rubber speed strip was. No one said anything and when I found it I just chucked it in the trash.

[@danieldylan1273]

Unfortunately this is just one of hundreds of thousands of examples of how TSA does not make flying safer! Deer rifle slugs are not small yet he was passed with 4 in his luggage! It took a foreign country to actually look at the scan of his bag to discover them!

[@flobbergassy]

I mean, he unfortunately messed up and that's why you check your bags before flying out of the country and you know the laws of where you're going. It also just shows how careless people can be with their ammunition and guns.

[@flobbergassy]

It IS sad that he can't be with his kids. They don't deserve that and that's awful for any parent.

[@Precursor-co7up]

So I'm curious how he made it through screening to board the plane to leave the US.

[@RobertDixon-sw3dz]

The Watson go fund me is already in the 200k range. You can make a difference by donating today !

[@guitarexpert2245]

why should we give them money for not doing their homework before traveling.

[@arkwill14]

@@guitarexpert2245 So, you think this guy KNEW he had a few loose bullets in his bag and just thought to himself - "ah, it'll probably be ok"?

[@ASoundBalance]

Way harsh punishment and comments tho regardless.

[@dorisjones7511]

American Arrogance is why he can't get home.

[@slayer964]

Who flies international with freaking bullets?! Come on🤦🏼‍♀️

[@AndrewDaniele87]

As if he knew beforehand lol

[@oioDerricKoio]

Might be an honest mistake, but still a mistake.

[@ebyim]

This is free publicity to show how safe TC is. Most Americans wanting to take a vacation and travel will feel safer in a country that enforces stricter gun laws.

[@LookingGlass363]

Ya'll are a bunch of jerks. He didn't know these hunting bullets were in his bag. He shouldn't get twelve years for that. I'm staying right here in my beautiful country. We have beaches.

[@hostnik777]

So you don’t believe in the rule of law or the sovereignty of nations?

[@user-nd3tg5zn1b]

Know the laws of other countries when you go to visit

[@davidbrown9866]

Very irresponsible or a criminal. Selling ammunition overseas (Black market) gets you big profit, good excuse, I forgot after hunting, just in case getting caught at airport. Yeah Right! Irresponsible, he has kids and forgets ammunition in suitcase. Either way send him to jail and when he gets back, take his gun license away, if you are that stupid he should not have a gun license.

[@IceBuckets305]

Siri play Turks and Caicos by Rod Wave 😂😂😂

[@psychicmediumalyshia5810]

IGNORANCE IS BLISS

[@isaacarmstrong5063]

Actually this is the exact opposite of that.

[@broncocrazy]

Note to self remove from travel destination. Personal choice.

[@CorritOUT]

So ya use same duffel bag ya go hunting with and don’t turn said duffel inside out to pack for an international flight?!?!! But his ammos got thru security check in the USA?!?! I feel so confident now…..NOT!!!

[@Idancewithwolves]

It was a accident....... its like people don't understand

[@kauigirl808]

Actually it’s the country.

[@leighannsoles8432]

I think you don't understand. He went to their country and broke a major law. It was his responsibility to know the laws there. He even had warnings from both Governments that he had access to online. Personal responsibility anyone?

[@michellejacks]

Let them go this is absolutely ridiculous

[@TommyRaines]

No. It is America's gun culture that is ridiculous.

[@StarwaterCWS]

Pay attention. He isn’t alleging someone planted them. He admits they are his. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. Besides, it has been posted on the State Department website.

[@AndrewDaniele87]

Yeah but you have to feel for him, who has caused more punishment? Him carrying bullets by mistake? Or the law of taking him away from his kids for 12 years? That is going to mess them up for life. I get it was a law that was broken, but there needs to be some thought behind it to judge whether the punishment is worse than the crime, no?

[@Artur_Khazin]

You did what? You packed a hunting bullets ammunition for a vacation. What is wrong with people these days.

[@truegrit7697]

This is idiotic beyond belief. I have managed to travel to about 10 different countries and NOT pack ammo. No sympathy here.

[@rainbowloomoverflow5106]

Did he think being an American, he should have special treatment and be freed! It’s their laws. And how stupid to say I don’t remember planting them there .

[@auraterry3548]

Think of a citizen of a country with more serial killers than any other part un the world..going abroad with ammunition in your bags 😂😂😂😂

[@GodBlessedAmerica]

Who failed to check his bags in America before departing?

[@MilR8897]

Know the laws of the country you go to vacation to before going and check your bags before packing!!! It was an innocent mistake that will cost him years and thousands of dollars.

[@jplj7013]

He won't get 12 years. Michael Grimm got 8 months for the same crime, and served five, and is safe back at home.

[@johnnystewart83]

You, see. "Guns" 😮

[@danielroque8504]

Ask for total immunity~delay, delay, delay, appeal the decisions, oops sorry, only in America can you do that``.....who carries bullets on vacation~~

[@KaraBGriffith]

This didn't "happen" to anyone. Not a victim.

[@MajorPayne175]

Call the NRA for help.......🙄🙄😒

[@kh8609]

Crime = time

[@AaronShook-ow9jl]

Well don't take ammo to other countries if it happens that much double check your bags

[@110311DONTWANTCHANNE]

um, if you can't be responsible with weapons and ammo, you should not be handling it......

[@ross-smithfamily6317]

Unless Turks and Caicos discloses this law at the airport and gives tourists a chance to turn over small amounts of ammunition they may have in their luggage, the U.S. State Department needs to put out a Black Box Warning against visiting Turks and Caicos, specifically indicating that US tourists are being arrested, held, and tried in criminal courts there.

[@leighannsoles8432]

Travel advisories from both Governments are published online, and on Embassy websites. Research laws more and windsurfing less when planning international travel, maybe?

[@tatata1543]

It may come as a shock to Americans but other countries are not as relaxed as the US when it comes to firearms.