An American Pilot Has Been Trapped in Guinea for 112 Days, Says White House Isn’t Doing Enough to Help

**American Pilots Remain Stranded in Guinea Amid Ongoing Legal Woes**

Two American pilots find themselves embroiled in a complex legal battle after what was intended to be a routine refuelling stop in Guinea spiralled into a nightmare of detention and uncertainty. Brad Schlenker, a pilot from Illinois, and his co-pilot Fabio Espinal Nunez from New Jersey, were arrested in December while grounded in the West African nation. The pilots were operating a private flight for a Brazilian family from Suriname to Dubai when they needed to make the stop for fuel.

Schlenker describes the jarring shift in his life after being detained for over two months. “I’ve been here now 112 days,” he stated during an interview with CBS News Chicago. One day, he was flying luxury aircraft across the globe, and the next, he found himself imprisoned under difficult circumstances. After spending a significant time behind bars, he was eventually released on bail but remains confined to house arrest at a hotel in Guinea, unable to leave the country as the legal proceedings continue.

The pilot insists they followed protocol, claiming to have received clearance for their landing. “We received our clearance, we took off, we talked to the tower, talked to [air traffic control] – bottom line is they cleared us to land,” Schlenker recounted. However, upon their arrival, they were met by armed military officials and subsequently accused of violating national security laws. Schlenker noted that despite multiple searches of the aircraft, no contraband was found.

Reflecting on the harsh realities of his situation, Schlenker asserts that the conditions in Guinea are far from what they would be accustomed to in their home country. “It’s filthy,” he described, indicating the stark contrast to life in downtown Chicago. He credited his family for their unwavering support, as they are instrumental in securing legal assistance and ensuring his safety in Guinea. “Without family, I’d be in a lot of trouble,” he admitted. “They’ve stepped up financially. Without my brothers and father, I would be screwed.”

Amidst the turmoil, Schlenker has made a plea for increased support from U.S. officials regarding their situation. He expressed hope that federal leaders will intervene in their case, facilitating their return home. “I’m begging for the goodwill of this judicial system to do the right thing and let me go home,” he said in a heartfelt appeal for justice. His frustrations reflect a broader sentiment among families of detained Americans who often rely on governmental assistance during foreign legal entanglements.

The pilots’ legal troubles have been challenging, and with a court date approaching, they are anxiously awaiting developments that could potentially resolve their case. Schlenker remains hopeful that the outcome will favour their return to the United States. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department has indicated its involvement, stating that officials have visited the pilots and are engaged in behind-the-scenes efforts to assist.

As the situation continues to unfold, questions remain about the effectiveness of diplomatic intervention in cases like this. Schlenker’s story highlights the precarious nature of international travel, especially in regions where legal systems may operate differently from those in the U.S. CBS News has reached out to the White House, the State Department, and the U.S. Embassy in Guinea for further commentary on the matter.

As their plight garners attention, the hope is that Schlenker and Nunez will soon be reunited with their families, reflecting on a harrowing experience that none could have anticipated when their journey began. The coming days will be pivotal for the pilots as they await a resolution, hoping for the goodwill of the local judicial system and support from their government to bring them safely home.