Michigan couple Paul and Christy Akeo were recently released from a Mexican prison after being detained over a payment dispute with a timeshare company. According to prosecutors in Quintana Roo, where Cancun is located, the couple was accused of defrauding a hospitality company, leading to their arrest upon landing in Cancun. However, their criminal charges were dropped after reaching a reparation agreement with the company, resulting in their release.

The Akeos had entered into a timeshare agreement with Palace Elite in 2021, a subsidiary of The Palace Company, but encountered issues with the services provided. Allegations of fraud were made against them by the company, which led to a legal battle involving disputed charges and breach of contract claims. The couple maintained their innocence, arguing that they were unfairly targeted for challenging the company’s charges and expressing their grievances on social media.

Their release was facilitated by the efforts of various individuals, including Michigan Rep. Tom Barrett, Special Envoy Adam Boehler, and former President Donald Trump. The Akeos’ family expressed gratitude for the officials’ assistance in securing their parents’ return to the US, highlighting Barrett’s dedication in advocating for the couple’s freedom.

Despite their ordeal, the Akeos are now back in Michigan and are receiving necessary medical care for the difficulties they faced during their time in captivity. The Palace Company also acknowledged the resolution of the dispute, with the contested amount being donated to a nonprofit benefiting orphan children in Mexico. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding international legal disputes and the importance of timely interventions to ensure justice is served.