Antigua and Barbuda Facilitates Prisoner Swap Between US and Venezuela
On Tuesday, Venezuela’s Information Minister, Freddy Nazareth Nanez, announced in a message to Reuters that Air Force veteran Joseph St. Clair had been released to U.S. envoy Richard Grenell on the Caribbean Island of Antigua.
This prisoner release coincided with Denise Odelia Charles’s arrival at VC Bird International Airport, marking the end of her 32-year absence as she returned from Venezuela.
The chartered flight that brought Charles to Antigua was the same one that transported St. Clair. After his arrival, he was placed on a flight to the United States.
According to reports, St. Clair had been wrongly detained in Venezuela since November 2024.
St. Clair’s parents expressed their overwhelming joy and gratitude in a release, stating that they are still processing the sudden news of his release.
This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2025/05/21/antigua-and-barbuda-facilitates-prisoner-swap-between-us-and-venezuela. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Antigua and Barbuda Eyes Specialised Healthcare Training Partnership With Monroe University
Health Minister Michael Joseph and Monroe University President Mark Jerome discuss advanced training programmes that would allow local healthcare professionals to pursue specialised qualifications while remaining in Antigua and Barbuda.
By Cory Wayland
Attorney Wendell Alexander Urges Escaped Prisoner Bernard Hurst to Surrender as Police Intensify Search
Attorney Wendell Alexander warns that police are likely to be heavily prepared to confront the escaped prisoner following reports that shots were fired during his escape from Parham Police Station.
By Cory Wayland
ABEC Chairman Joins Regional Talks on AI, Campaign Finance and Election Integrity
Ambassador Arthur Thomas represented Antigua and Barbuda at a meeting in Santo Domingo where election officials discussed disinformation, digital donations and safeguards for election technology.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
One in Eight Adults in Antigua and Barbuda Living With Diabetes, Association Says
The Antigua and Barbuda Diabetes Association is calling for earlier diagnosis and timely access to care ahead of Saturday’s World Diabetes Day walk at the Rising Sun Grounds.
By Shermain Bique-Charles

Comments (6)
Stone May 21, 2025, 3:37 PM
Juju Bee May 21, 2025, 5:59 PM
Food4thought May 21, 2025, 10:50 PM
Antigua Surf May 21, 2025, 10:52 PM
Unruly One May 22, 2025, 8:27 AM
Ben Simmons May 23, 2025, 12:44 AM