Another American has been arrested in Turks and Caicos after ammunition was found in his luggage.
Tyler Wenrich is the fourth American detained under similar circumstances in the last several months, CBS News reported.
Customs officers said they found two bullets in his backpack as he was about to board a cruise ship Saturday.
The Virginia EMT and father is facing the potential of a mandatory minimum prison sentence of up to 12 years.
Jeriann Wenrich said her husband had been on the island for less than a day.
"I feel like as a very honest mistake that 12 years is absurd,” Jeriann Wenrich said. “I mean maybe one night in jail."
Jeriann Wenrich said she is worried about the unknowns.
“All I could run through my head is that I'm never going to see my husband again,” she said. “My son's only 18 months and I just don't want to him to grow up without a dad."
In response to the arrest the Powhatan Volunteer Rescue Squad, which Tyler Wenrich is a member of, released the following statement.
Powhatan Volunteer Rescue Squad is deeply saddened and shocked to learn about the recent arrest of our longtime member and former Captain, Tyler Wenrich. Our hearts go out to Tyler and his family during this difficult time, and we want to emphasize our unwavering support for them.
Tyler has been an integral part of our organization for many years, and his dedication and service have left an indelible mark on our community. As a former Captain, Tyler exhibited exemplary leadership qualities and was instrumental in guiding our squad through numerous challenges. His commitment to the well-being of others was evident in every aspect of his work, and his contributions to our team have been invaluable.
Throughout his time with us, Tyler was not only a skilled Paramedic but also one of the kindest and most compassionate individuals we have ever had the privilege of knowing. His genuine concern for others, coupled with his professionalism and dedication, set him apart as a role model for all members of our organization.
While we are deeply troubled by the recent events, we want to emphasize that Tyler remains a respected member of our community, and we are committed to supporting him and his family in any way we can. As an organization, we stand ready to assist Tyler during this challenging period, and we urge our community to offer their support and understanding as well.
Powhatan Volunteer Rescue Squad is dedicated to serving our community with integrity, compassion, and professionalism. We remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding these principles and supporting our members through both triumphs and trials.
Both of Virginia's senators said they are aware and involved in Wenrich's situation.
"Sen. Warner’s office is in contact with Mr. Wenrich’s family and is exploring potential avenues for help with this unfortunate situation," a spokesperson for Sen. Mark Warner, D - Virginia, said in a statement.
“Senator Kaine is aware of this situation. He is in touch with the Department of State to ensure Mr. Wenrich receives fair treatment and will continue to monitor it closely as the legal process continues," said a spokesperson for Sen. Tim Kaine, D - Virginia.
There are at least four American tourists potentially facing lengthy prison sentences and a fifth, who served nearly 6 months, after they say they mistakenly brought ammunition in their luggage on vacation.
Ryan Watson, a 40-year-old father of two, is now out of jail on bail. But he cannot go home ahead of a June court hearing.
After a birthday vacation with his wife, he was arrested at the airport April 12 when security found four rounds of hunting ammo in his carry-on.
Watson said he checked his bag before packing it.
“I opened it up and kind of give it a little shimmy,” he said. “I didn't see anything…. didn't hear anything.”
The TSA acknowledged officers missed the ammo when his bag was screened at the checkpoint in Oklahoma City on April 7.
"It was my oversight. It was my mistake,” Watson said. “It was very, very innocent. And, now I just pray that, like I said, compassion and consideration, cuz there was zero criminal intent.”
Following CBS News’ initial report Tuesday the State Department re-issued a warning to "carefully check your luggage for stray ammunition…"
