Rep. Mimi Walters Meets With Family of Michael Nguyen, U.S. Citizen Imprisoned In Vietnam

Statement

Today, Rep. Mimi Walters (R-California) released the following statement after meeting with the wife and children of Michael Nguyen, a U.S. citizen and Orange County resident imprisoned by the Vietnamese government last month.

Said Congresswoman Walters, "Today, I met with the Nguyen family to discuss our efforts to bring Michael home safely. I share their deep concern about his wellbeing and outrage over his imprisonment by the Vietnamese government. Tomorrow, I will speak with the United States Embassy in Vietnam to coordinate efforts to secure Michael's immediate release. I will remain in close contact with the White House and State Department to ensure there are no bureaucratic delays. I will do everything in my power to ensure Michael is released and safely returned home to his family."

Background

On July 7, 2018, Michael Phuong Minh Nguyen, a 54 year old father of four, was imprisoned by the Vietnamese government. The U.S. Department of State confirmed he is being held at a detention facility in Ho Chi Minh City. He reportedly is in fair health with no visible signs of abuse. On July 31, 2018, the U.S. Department of State received consular access to Mr. Nguyen. Rep. Walters remains in close contact with his family, the U.S. Department of State, and all parties involved.

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