Russia 'wrongfully detained' Brittney Griner in February, State Department spox says

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The U.S. State Department determined Russia "wrongfully detained" WNBA star Brittney Griner when she was arrested in February, an official said in a statement to Fox News Digital on Tuesday.

Griner was arrested in February after Russian officials claimed a search of her luggage revealed vape cartridges containing oil derived from cannabis. Griner could face up to a decade in prison if she’s convicted. She’s expected to have a hearing in Russia on May 19.

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Brittney Griner is pictured in an undated photo after her arrest. (Russian State TV)

"The welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad is among the highest priorities of the U.S government," a State Department spokesperson said. "The Department of State has determined that the Russian Federation has wrongfully detained U.S. citizen Brittney Griner.

"With this determination, the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens will lead the interagency team for securing Brittney Griner’s release."

Fox News Digital also confirmed Bill Richardson, the former governor of New Mexico and U.S. ambassador during the Clinton administration, agreed to help work on the Griner case. Richardson helped secure the release of American journalist Danny Fenster from a Burmese prison in November.

ESPN first reported the reclassification of Griner’s status.

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Brittney Griner of the Mercury reacts to a foul call in the Chicago Sky game at Footprint Center on Oct. 10, 2021, in Phoenix, Arizona. (Mike Mattina/Getty Images)

Griner’s agent didn’t immediately respond to a