TIJUANA.- The widely published incarceration of former marine sergeant Andrew Tahmooressi in Mexico has received all sorts of media coverage since his arrival in Mexico on March 31, 2014 with three illegal weapons including an assault rifle and more than 400 rounds of ammunition. Today, the equally controversial actress and singer Miley Cyrus has added her voice to support the controversial cause.

Is this concern sincere or is it a publicity stunt? While Miley Cyrus has given the press and social media much to talk about with her often risqué public performances, this message in support of Andrew Tahmooressi may help bring out a more human side in her.

"Thinking of Andrew Tahmooressi and his family and hoping for his safe return to the United States #MarineinMexico" reads the tweet published under her handle, using the popular hashtag in support of the former marine.

Born in Nashville, Tennesee, Cyrus grew up in a traditional American household and her support for the military in this regard comes as no surprise. Several politicians and other personalities have voiced their opinions in support of the Tahmooressi family. Support groups have demanded his immediate release from day one, however, the reality of his case which is moving through the legal system has not been as simple.

After widespread rumors circulated the first weeks of October announcing Tahmooressi's impending release, the Tahmooressi camp quickly shot the rumors down. Shortly after, his defense Attorney Fernando Benitez announced that the evidentiary stage of the trial was about to be closed, and that this would trigger closing statements from both sides. After closing statements are filed, the judge would have fifteen days to render a ruling. Since then, Attorney Benitez and Tahmooressi's support page have been more or less silent on the subject.

Brenda.Colon@sandiegored.com

borderzonie@gmail.com