Former Marine detained in Mexico returns to So. Fla.

PALMETTO BAY, Fla. (WSVN) -- A Marine veteran who spent the last four months in a Mexican jail returned to his South Florida home just in time for Christmas.

Twenty-seven-year-old Jon Hammar, Jr. and his father arrived at his Palmetto Bay home early Monday morning. In a brief statement, Hammar, Sr. described that his son still needs to recover from an illness he acquired during his four-month ordeal inside a Matamoros prison. His family said he was chained to his bed.

"This is great. I'm glad to be talking to you about that it's over with because it's really over with," said Hammar Sr.

On his way to Costa Rica, last August, Hammar, Jr. was detained in Mexico after he tried to carry his grandfather's antique shotgun across the border. The Marine veteran was arrested and put in jail despite his claim that he carried a permit for the family heirloom. According to Mexican authorities, bringing a firearm into the country is a federal crime.

Following his arrival to the States, Hammar, Jr. was taken to a hospital in Louisiana where he was treated for his illness. He returned to South Florida just before noon, on Christmas Eve.

"He's still very sick, but we're taking care of him," Hammar, Sr. said to 7News Christmas morning. "We're trying to get on with the day and have a great Christmas," he added.

Neighbors showed the Hammars their support by tying yellow ribbons on palm trees near their residence. "I can't imagine anything worse than having your kid locked up in a Mexican jail," said neighbor Sean Fisher.

"It is a great Christmas morning. We are all home safe," said Hammar, Sr.

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