Confirmation of the release of adolescent Samanta Sofía Hernández after almost six months detained in Venezuela
The NGO Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners reported on Monday night, May 18, about the release of adolescent Samanta Sofía Hernández Castillo, who had been detained since November 2025 at the Entidad de Atención de Antímano. Through a public statement, the young woman's family confirmed that [...]
TL;DR
- Adolescent Samanta Sofía Hernández Castillo was released on May 18 after being detained since November 2025.
- Her detention was described as arbitrary and part of a "policy of persecution and family punishment" by rights groups.
- Hernández Castillo is the sister of a dissident military officer, and her family has faced persecution.
- A court had previously denied her amnesty in April, citing terrorism charges, despite arguments that the nature of the crime, not its name, should determine amnesty eligibility.
- Cecodap emphasized that the legal standard for minors prioritizes protection and reintegration over punishment.
- The Amnesty Law in Venezuela has specific exclusions that prevent broader application.
- Her family confirmed she has an early release order and has reunited with them.
- Organizations continue to demand the release of other detained adolescents and political prisoners.