After more than three years in Russian custody, American teacher Marc Fogel has been officially designated as wrongfully detained by the U.S. State Department. Fogel, a Pennsylvania native, was arrested at a Russian airport in August 2021 for possessing medically prescribed marijuana, resulting in a 14-year prison sentence. His designation follows unsuccessful attempts to include him in a prisoner exchange that secured the release of other Americans, including journalist Evan Gershkovich and executive Paul Whelan.

Fogel's family and legal team have consistently advocated for his release, arguing that the charges against him are disproportionate to his offense. Following the recent prisoner swap, they intensified their efforts, urging the Biden administration to classify him as wrongfully detained, a status that significantly alters how the U.S. government handles his case.

The State Department considers various factors in making such designations, including evidence of innocence and whether the detention serves as leverage for political concessions. In October, Secretary of State Antony Blinken determined that Fogel met the criteria for wrongful detention. This decision formally shifts oversight of his case to the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, a specialized office dedicated to negotiating the freedom of Americans held captive abroad.

Fogel's family expressed relief at the State Department's decision, stating that it validates their long-held belief in his unjust imprisonment. They are hopeful that this official designation will expedite efforts to secure his safe return. With the full weight of the U.S. government now formally behind their cause, they are determined to pursue all avenues for his swift release.