In a shocking turn of events, 21-year-old Lehman College student Elizabeth Polanco De Los Santos, found herself entangled in a nightmarish legal battle during a layover in Dubai.
Accused of “assaulting and insulting” an airport security guard, the life of Elizabeth Santos took an unexpected turn by potentially resulting in a devastating one-year prison sentence. This incident sheds light on the urgent need for robust support systems for travelers facing foreign legal proceedings.
Who is Elizabeth Polanco De Los Santos NYC college student arrested in Dubai for wearing waist training brace
NY student Elizabeth Santos was sentenced to 1 year in prison in Dubaihttps://t.co/3V8kicRgmn
— Elwin Paucek (@PaucekElwi33520) October 3, 2023
Elizabeth Santos detention explained
Elizabeth Santos and her friend who were returning from a vacation in Istanbul decided to make a brief layover in Dubai to explore the renowned city. Little did they know, this decision would lead to a life-altering ordeal.
At Dubai’s airport security, Elizabeth Santos was instructed to remove a vital waist compressor following a recent surgery. The removal process, far from gentle, caused pain to her still-healing surgical scars. To add insult to injury, the staff callously refused assistance in reassembling the complex garment, leaving Elizabeth feeling violated and vulnerable.
In her distress, Elizabeth turned to her friend for solace. Gently touching an obstructing security guard, she hoped to continue her journey and find the support she desperately needed. This act, however, would have unforeseen consequences.
The security guard filed a complaint against Elizabeth, leading to her detention for hours. Things took a turn for the worse when she was compelled to sign an Arabic-written form before being allowed to leave. Her return to the airport for her flight to New York was met with a travel ban as charges were brought against her.
Elizabeth Santos’ ordeal
Weeks turned into months as Elizabeth faced mounting expenses, staying in Dubai hotels while awaiting legal proceedings. Though a judge eventually granted her the option to pay a substantial fine for release, this respite was short-lived. Prosecutors contested the ruling, resulting in a distressing one-year sentence.
This harrowing experience took a toll on Elizabeth’s physical and mental well-being, leaving her with long-lasting scars. The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the matter while Lehman College has refrained from commenting on Elizabeth’s status as a student.
Elizabeth Santos’ ordeal in Dubai serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities travelers may face in foreign legal systems. Her story underscores the critical need for robust support and advocacy for individuals ensnared in such situations.