Michigan couple detained in Mexico for over a month over timeshare dispute head home

After being detained in a Mexican prison for over a month due to a timeshare dispute, Michigan grandparents Christy Akeo, 60, and Paul Akeo, 58, are finally heading home. The couple, who reside in Spring Arbor, Michigan, found themselves in a legal battle with Mexican authorities after being arrested during what was supposed to be a vacation in Cancun.

Their daughter and son-in-law, Lindsey Lemke Hull and Michael Lemke, expressed their gratitude to President Donald Trump, Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler, and Congressman Tom Barrett for working tirelessly to secure the release of their parents. They also thanked Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Mark Coolidge Johnson, and the U.S. Embassy Mission Mexico team for their efforts.

The Akeo family also acknowledged Rep. Barrett’s heroic efforts in traveling to Cancun, camping out at the prison, and advocating for the release of Christy and Paul. Despite facing personal risks, Rep. Barrett remained committed to bringing the grandparents home safely, embodying the spirit of never leaving an American behind.

The Akeos are currently receiving medical care from physicians and therapists as they recuperate from their ordeal. The family has requested privacy as they rest and heal, but they plan to share more about their experience in the coming days.

The dispute that led to the Akeos’ detention stemmed from a timeshare agreement they entered into in 2021 with a resort company called Palace Elite Resorts. The couple purchased a Cancun timeshare for a significant amount per month for an 11-year term. However, in 2022, Paul filed a complaint with American Express, alleging that Palace breached their contract and failed to provide the promised goods and services.

American Express investigated the complaint and sided with the Akeos, issuing a chargeback of over $116,000. This decision led to the Mexican authorities accusing the couple of fraud, claiming that they had defrauded the hotel company out of more than $100,000. The Palace Company contended that the Akeos breached their membership agreements and engaged in prohibited activities, resulting in financial harm to the company.

Despite the conflicting narratives, the Akeos’ attorney argued that the matter should have been resolved in a civil suit rather than resulting in their arrest and imprisonment. The Akeos maintain their innocence and look forward to putting this challenging chapter behind them as they return home to Michigan.

As the Akeos prepare to reunite with their family and loved ones, their story serves as a reminder of the complexities and risks involved in international legal disputes. It also highlights the importance of diplomatic efforts and advocacy in securing the safe return of American citizens facing legal challenges abroad.