US Man Fired While Detained in N. Korea

Jeffrey Fowle, an Ohio man who has been detained in North Korea since May, was officially let go from his position with the city of Moraine due to his lengthy absence. Fowle, who was prevented from boarding his return flight, admitted to intentionally leaving behind a Bible in his hotel room, breaking the country’s strict religious-propaganda laws. “The city of Moraine has bent over backwards on behalf of Jeff and his family,” Fowle’s attorney, Tim Tepe, said. “They were obviously in a position where they had to do something, and the family understands that.” Fowle’s family received $70,000 in severance pay and the option for Fowle to be reinstated upon his return. He worked for the city for more than 25 years.