Records Show Unusual Handling of Juan Orlando Hernandez After Trump Pardon

Overview

• Juan Orlando Hernandez, convicted in 2024 and sentenced to 45 years for narcotics-related corruption, was fully pardoned by President Donald Trump on Dec. 1 after serving less than four years.
• Prison and immigration records indicate an ICE detainer was lifted late at night on the day of his release to allow him to leave federal custody.
• Federal prison officials used an overtime tactical team to drive Hernandez from the Hazelton facility in West Virginia to New York City and arranged lodging at the five-star Waldorf Astoria.
• Hernandez’s expedited release and premium accommodations contrasted with the swift deportation efforts faced by many noncitizens in recent ICE enforcement actions.
• Honduran authorities issued a warrant and sought Interpol action but no red notice was reported, and his current whereabouts and immigration status remain unclear.