MERIDIAN -- The Haitian attorney for the jailed Americans, once again, demanded their release saying the Americans love Haiti and they shouldn't be kept in jail.
It's a sentiment echoed by family members back in Idaho.
The two men claim their loved ones acted out of selflessness and they were courageous, and they believe their efforts to love the Haitian children, should not be overlooked by the legal system.
"Some people suggested that, that because of the amount of aid, maybe they should look at our 10 loved ones differently," said Charisa Coulter's father, Mel Coulter. "No, I think they need to look at our loved ones through the eyes of love. Their willingness to love the Haitian children and express that same love back."
This is the first time since the charges were made that we have heard from Eric Thompson and Mel Coulter.
Thompson's wife is Carla, the Meridian woman suffering from an infection in her leg.
Coulter's daughter Charisa is said to have organized the trip with Laura Silsby.
Thompson and Coulter insist the group went in with great intentions, and their family members efforts are misunderstood.
They are frustrated with how their attorney has singled out Silsby, and despite reports of a note that some of the group is split, they believe the 10 will stay united.
"He was hired for all 10, then singled out one, that is very unethical," said Thompson. "It may be a difference in culture, but it is not a difference in culture for the United States, and I firmly believe that was not an ethical move. He's hired to represent all 10."
Coulter agreed, "10 went in as one. We anticipate 10 coming out as one."
