Three U.S. governors - representing Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Oklahoma - have joined forces to urge the government of Turks and Caicos to show leniency towards Americans detained in the islands for ammunition possession. This plea comes after a Florida woman became the fifth U.S. tourist to be charged with carrying ammunition, reigniting concerns about travel regulations and airport security.

In a joint letter sent on Tuesday, the governors requested the governor of Turks and Caicos to reconsider charging three American citizens - Bryan Hagerich, Tyler Wenrich, and Ryan Watson - who currently face the possibility of 12-year prison sentences. The governors emphasized that these individuals, like thousands of Americans every year, visited Turks and Caicos for leisure purposes and made unintentional mistakes without any malicious intent.

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police confirmed the arrest of Sharitta Shinise Grier, a 45-year-old resident of Orlando, Florida. Grier was charged with one count of ammunition possession after two rounds were allegedly found in her luggage during a routine search at Howard Hamilton International Airport. Grier, who was returning to Florida when detained, appeared in court on Thursday, with her next hearing scheduled for July 5.

The National Rifle Association (NRA) has also gotten involved in advocating for the return of U.S. citizens, urging the U.S. State Department to use all possible means to bring them back safely to America. Meanwhile, the State Department acknowledges Grier's arrest and has advised Americans traveling to Turks and Caicos to carefully check their luggage for any forgotten weapons or ammunition before departure. The department underlines that declaring a weapon with an airline carrier does not grant permission to bring it into the islands, leading to potential arrest.

It is worth noting that possessing firearms or ammunition is prohibited in Turks and Caicos, and prior to February, tourists were only subject to fines for such violations. However, a court order implemented in February now imposes mandatory prison time for both residents and tourists, in addition to fines. This change has raised concerns among travelers and resulted in more Americans being arrested for ammunition possession.

It was revealed that Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers missed four rounds of hunting ammunition in Watson's carry-on bag during departure from Oklahoma City in April. TSA acknowledged the oversight and stated that they are addressing it internally. TSA Administrator David Pekoske recognized the challenge faced by screeners, suggesting the need for additional technology assists, such as software that can identify ammunition and firearms in baggage.

In response to these incidents, Pekoske advised travelers to empty and repack their carry-on bags before heading to the airport to ensure they do not unwittingly carry prohibited items. He also acknowledged that it is impossible to catch everything, emphasizing the importance of ongoing efforts to enhance security measures.

As the debate over these cases continues, U.S. governors, the NRA, and the State Department aim to find a resolution that will protect the rights and safety of U.S. citizens while respecting the laws of Turks and Caicos.

-Kris Van Cleave and Elizabeth Campbell contributed reporting.