Convicted spy Pollard released from prison
WASHINGTON — Convicted spy Jonathan Pollard was released from prison early today, culminating an extraordinary espionage case that complicated American-Israeli relations for 30 years and became a periodic bargaining chip between two allies.
“The people of Israel welcome the release of Jonathan A. Pollard,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said. “As someone who raised Jonathan’s case for years with successive American presidents, I had long hoped this day would come.”
The federal Bureau of Prisons also confirmed he was no longer in custody but provided no other details.
Pollard’s release from a federal prison in Butner, N.C., came nearly 30 years to the day after his arrest for providing large amounts of classified U.S. government information to Israel.
“I have waited for this day for 30 long years, unbelievable,” Anne, his ex-wife told Army Radio. “It’s an amazing moment.”
Pollard had been granted parole this summer from a life sentence imposed in 1987. His lawyers have said they have secured a job and housing for him in the New York area, without elaborating.
The terms of his parole require him to remain in the United States for at least five years, though supporters — including Netanyahu and some members of Congress — are seeking permission for him to move to Israel immediately.
