Key West Travel Agents Arrested for Alleged Scam
Authorities in Key West, Florida, have taken action against a couple accused of defrauding travelers seeking a vacation in Cuba. Steven Carl Sanchez, aged 53, and Traci Leann Culiver-Sanchez, aged 60, are now facing serious charges including grand theft and unauthorized sale of travel services to a designated terrorist state.
The Allegations
The couple operated under the business name Majestic Seas Luxury Charters and reportedly lured victims into booking a trip that ultimately did not materialize. Seven individuals are said to have fallen prey to the scheme, with one victim revealing a loss of nearly $4,000 for a scheduled trip.
Details of the Scam
- The victims were set to depart from Miami International Airport on December 5.
- The couple arrived late, which resulted in the group missing their flight.
- New flights were later arranged, but they were canceled shortly after, leaving travelers without their planned getaway.
- None of the victims received refunds for their payments.
Investigation Findings
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), investigations revealed that neither Sanchez nor Culiver-Sanchez was registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture, which is a requirement for selling travel services legally.
Legal Actions
Following the uncovering of these activities, warrants were issued for the couple’s arrest. They were taken into custody on a recent Monday and are now facing legal repercussions for their actions.
This case serves as a reminder for consumers to ensure that travel services are properly registered and legitimate when planning their trips.
