TWIN CITY (KRON) — A former Marine who spent eight months in a Mexican jail has been arrested in Georgia, charged with driving under the influence.
20-year-old Andrew Tahmooressi spent eight months in a Mexican jail for crossing the border with loaded guns.
Tahmooressi says he took a wrong turn on the freeway and ended up in a Tijuana port of entry.
Politicians, veterans groups, and private citizens called for his release and celebrated when he was able to return home in November.
Tahmooressi has stayed under the radar for much of the time since his release until Wednesday night.
That’s when he was arrested by the Emanuel County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop in Twin City, about 175 miles southeast of Atlanta.
Tahmooressi, now living in Daytona Beach, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence, reckless driving, improper passing and open container violation.
Jon Franks, the spokesperson for the Tahmooressi family, took to twitter saying, “We are aware that Andrew Tahmooressi is under arrest for various traffic related offenses. The family again reminds all he is suffering from a significant mental illness and respectfully requests privacy. We all remain committed to getting him the help he needs.”
In a separate post, Franks continued, tweeting “We certainly ask for and invite prayers for the Tahmooressi family during this difficult time. Consistent with Andrew’s privacy, we will make every effort to be as forthcoming as possible. Please understand however, our primary goal is getting him the help he needs, and ensuring he is not held up to undue public scrutiny as the result of his mental illness.”
Tahmooressi was released Thursday morning after posting bond.