Scammer arrested after defrauding Belize resort of over $13,000 USD

Published by [email protected] at February 27, 2024

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Posted: Tuesday, February 27, 2024. 5:52 pm CST.

By Horace Palacio: Christopher D’Angelo Alvarado Marchena (40), has been arrested for allegedly defrauding the luxurious Itz’Ana Resort in Belize of over $13,000 USD in unpaid services. Marchena, who may also use the name Nicolas Paula, was swiftly apprehended thanks to the vigilance of the Belizean community and exceptional reporting by the Belize media.

Marchena initially checked into the resort on February 5th, 2024, under the name Nicolas Paula, claiming to have initiated a wire transfer of $10,469.95 USD for his stay. When payment failed to arrive, he extended his stay to February 14th, repeatedly promising to rectify the situation. However, Marchena allegedly provided fraudulent screenshots of a second transfer attempt.

On February 13th, Marchena fled the resort owing $13,525.55 USD (approximately $27,051.10 Belize dollars) for an eight-night luxury stay. Itz’Ana Resort’s financial controller filed a police report on February 14th, including documentation of the incident and communication with the bank.

In addition to the Belize incident, Marchena is suspected of a similar scam involving rental properties in Costa Rica.

The Itz’Ana Resort issued a statement:

“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our Belizean community. Your unwavering support and vigilance have been a beacon of hope amidst recent adversities. Thanks to collective efforts and 7 News Belize’s exceptional reporting, the scammer was swiftly apprehended. This experience underscores the importance of trust, mutual support, and the power of our community. At Itz’ana, your trust is our greatest asset, and serving you is our highest honor. We remain committed to ensuring excellence and security. Together, we emerge stronger. Thank you for standing with us!”

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