By Scott SmithThe Associated PressCARACAS, Venezuela — The family of a Houston-based Citgo oil executive convicted and ordered to prison in Venezuela alongside five others appealed directly to President Nicolás Maduro on Friday for mercy. In an open letter, relatives of José Pereira, 63, wrote to Maduro that he has a long list of health problems that need medical attention. They ask for Maduro to free him — and the other five — so they can return home to their families in the United States. “Our purpose for this letter is not to enter into legal tirades about the case,” the letter says.Read more on NewsOK.com