Cancun, Q.R. — Two Americans who spent nearly a month in Cancun prison have been released and returned to the U.S. The pair returned to their home state of Michigan late Thursday night after reaching a settlement for fraud.
Paul “N” 58, and Christy Lin “N” 60, were arrested in early March from the Cancun International Airport on allegations of fraud for which they were later officially charged. They were wanted by Interpol Mexico and arrested by National Guard on outstanding warrants after a hotel chain filed a complaint against them.
The allegations date back to a timeshare contract agreement signed by both parties in November of 2021. The hotel chain, Palace Group, claimed the pair owed them $116,587 USD for 13 cancelled credit card transactions.
On Thursday, U.S. Congressman Tom Barrett met with the couple in Cancun prison. On social media he said “after landing in Cancun this morning, I traveled directly to the maximum security prison where Paul and Christy Akeo are being held.
“I met with them personally for an hour and learned of the horrific conditions they are facing — rubbled walls, overcrowded cells, toilets that don’t flush, and disgusting food. This has left them scared, frustrated, and struggling to find hope. I assured them that I am doing everything I can to urgently secure their safe release.
“Following my meeting with Paul and Christy I met with the president of the Quintana Roo Supreme Court to expedite any relief we can provide. Thank you to the U.S. State Department for their assets and support on the ground to end this family’s nightmare, and I hope to have more to share soon.”
After spending nearly a month behind bars over the hotel contract dispute, the Michigan couple were released after agreeing to a settlement. According to the Quintana Roo State Attorney General’s Office, both sides came to an agreement. The hotel said that the money repaid will be donated to three non-profit organizations.
“The Quintana Roo Attorney General’s Office (FGE) reports that following the hearing held before the Control Judge, foreigners Paul “N” and Christy Lin “N” reached a settlement agreement with the Palace Group.
“The defendants agreed to repair the damage to the hotel by mutual agreement, validated by the Control Judge, who decreed the dismissal of the criminal case and ordered the immediate release of the accused.
“For its part, the hotel chain indicated that the payment will be allocated to three non-profit organizations.
“The Attorney General’s Office reiterates its commitment to justice and social welfare, acting in accordance with the law to ensure reparation for damages and respect for the rights of all parties involved,” the State Attorney General (FGE) reported in a statement.
Official details surrounding the agreed upon settlement were not disclosed.
The pair were released from Cancun prison Thursday and arrived at the Lansing Capitol Region International Airport in Michigan around 11:30 p.m. that same night.
