# Juan Orlando Hernandez, Ex-Honduran President Pardoned by Trump, Returns Home Facing New Charges

*Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former Honduran president pardoned by Donald Trump, is back in Honduras.*

July 27, 2026 · World

Juan Orlando Hernandez, the former president of Honduras who was serving a 45-year prison sentence in the United States for drug trafficking, returned to his home country on Sunday after receiving a pardon from President Donald Trump last year. Hernandez arrived on a private flight at Palmerola Airport near the capital Tegucigalpa, where he was greeted by family and supporters.

At a gathering with hundreds of supporters, Hernandez expressed gratitude to Trump for the pardon. He is scheduled to appear in court on August 3 to face fraud and money-laundering charges, which he denies, claiming continued persecution. Hernandez is accused of diverting $2 million in public funds to finance his first presidential campaign.

Hernandez led Honduras from 2014 to 2022 and was extradited shortly after leaving office by his successor, Xiomara Castro, to face US drug trafficking charges. A US court found him guilty in 2024 of helping smuggle hundreds of tons of Colombian-produced cocaine into the United States in alliance with drug lords, including Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman.

## FAQs

Why was Juan Orlando Hernandez in prison?

Hernandez was serving a 45-year prison sentence in the United States for drug trafficking charges.

What led to his pardon?

Former US President Donald Trump pardoned Hernandez just days before Honduras's presidential election last year.

What charges does he face in Honduras?

Hernandez is due to appear in court on August 3 to face fraud and money-laundering charges.

What is his stance on these charges?

He denies the charges, claiming he is a victim of persecution.

## Sources

- BSS

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/world/honduran-ex-president-returns-home-after-trump-pardon