Release and Assistance
Christy and Paul Akeo, a Michigan couple, were released from a Mexican prison after nearly a month, thanks to efforts by U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett, President , and special envoy . They are now en route to Michigan.
Their release followed a settlement with Palace Elite Resorts, the timeshare company involved, and a judge dismissed the criminal case against them. The couple thanked President Trump and others for their support.
Allegations and Legal Battle
The Akeos were accused of defrauding Palace Elite Resorts by canceling credit card payments totaling over $116,500, related to a disputed timeshare agreement. They denied the allegations, claiming the timeshare company failed to provide promised services.
The couple's legal troubles began after they disputed charges with their credit card company, leading to their arrest in . The case drew attention to the conditions in the Mexican prison system and sparked a diplomatic intervention.