“Julian Is Free!” Assange Released After ‘Time Served’ Plea Deal With DOJ, Departs For Home

In a stunning turn of events, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been released from prison after striking a ‘time served’ plea deal with the US Department of Justice. The news has sent shockwaves around the world, with supporters and advocates for press freedom rejoicing at the sudden and unexpected development.

Assange, 50, had been detained at Belmarsh Prison in London since April 2019, when he was arrested by British authorities after spending seven years in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, where he had sought asylum. He was facing extradition to the United States on charges of espionage and conspiracy related to WikiLeaks’ publication of classified documents revealing US war crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The plea deal, which was negotiated between Assange’s legal team and the DOJ, allows Assange to walk free after serving nearly three years in prison. Under the terms of the agreement, Assange has pleaded guilty to a single count of unauthorized access to a computer, a charge that carries a maximum sentence of five years. However, due to the time he has already served, Assange will not be required to spend any additional time behind bars.

Assange’s release has been met with widespread celebration from his supporters, who have long argued that he is a hero and a champion of press freedom. “This is a great day for Julian Assange, his family, and for journalism,” said WikiLeaks editor-in-chief KristinnHrafnsson. “Julian’s courage and determination have inspired a generation of journalists and whistleblowers around the world.”

Assange’s legal team, led by renowned human rights lawyer Jennifer Robinson, hailed the deal as a major victory. “We are thrilled that Julian is finally free to return home to his family and loved ones,” Robinson said. “This outcome is a testament to the tireless efforts of our legal team and the unwavering support of Julian’s supporters around the world.”

Assange’s release is also seen as a significant blow to the US government’s efforts to prosecute him on espionage charges. The case against Assange had been widely criticized by press freedom advocates, who argued that it set a dangerous precedent for journalists and whistleblowers.

As Assange departed Belmarsh Prison, he was greeted by a crowd of supporters and well-wishers, who cheered and chanted his name. He was seen smiling and waving as he was driven away from the prison in a car.

Assange’s next steps are unclear, but it is expected that he will return to his home in Australia, where he will be reunited with his family and loved ones. His release marks the end of a long and arduous chapter in his life, and a new beginning for the man who has become a symbol of resistance against government secrecy and oppression.

In a statement, Assange’s family expressed their gratitude to his supporters and legal team. “We are overjoyed that Julian is finally free,” they said. “We would like to thank everyone who has supported Julian throughout this ordeal. Your love and solidarity have meant the world to us.”

As the news of Assange’s release spreads, it is clear that this is a momentous day for press freedom and for the many people around the world who have been inspired by Assange’s courage and determination. Julian Assange is finally free, and his release is a testament to the power of activism and advocacy.