Ortiz fled Spain but was later arrested in Venezuela in connection with the murders. A Venezuelan court found him guilty last year and sentenced him for the crimes.
Following his release as part of the prisoner exchange, US officials did not provide details on whether Ortiz would face legal consequences upon his return.
The exchange, facilitated through diplomatic negotiations, involved the return of 252 Venezuelans held in US custody under immigration laws, many of whom had been transferred to a high-security prison in El Salvador. In return, the US secured the release of its citizens detained in Venezuela, raising questions about the inclusion of a convicted murderer in the agreement.
Foro Penal, a Venezuelan human rights organization, noted that while nine of the released Americans were classified as political prisoners, Ortiz did not meet that classification. The group did not elaborate further on the distinction but confirmed his release alongside the others.
Spanish authorities have not yet commented on whether they will seek Ortiz’s extradition to face justice in Spain. Under international law, countries may pursue legal action against individuals accused or convicted of crimes within their jurisdiction, even if they are repatriated to their home country.
The US State Department emphasized its commitment to bringing detained Americans home but declined to discuss individual cases.
Read next
Over 1 million people gather in Madrid for outdoor mass with Pope Leo
Over one million people gathered in Madrid for an open-air mass led by Pope Leo. During the service, the American pontiff highlighted the contradiction between Christian principles and far-right ideology, stating, “No one can kneel before the Lord and despise their brother.”
Crowds began forming hours before dawn on Sunday
Xi Jinping visits Pyongyang to strengthen China-North Korea relations
Xi Jinping has begun a two-day visit to North Korea, marking his first trip to the country in nearly seven years as he seeks to strengthen relations with the ally.
Footage from the Xinhua state news agency showed the Chinese leader and his wife, Peng Liyuan, arriving at Sunan international
Denmark's mullet championship celebrates the 'beautifully ugly' and divisive hairstyle
Copenhagen recently hosted the 2026 Mullet Championship, where more than 1,000 spectators gathered on an outdoor stage to celebrate the enduring hairstyle characterized by short hair in the front and length in the back.
Twelve participants competed in the event, which was organized by 37-year-old electrician Steffen Stiw Weber.