We represent several Americans and others unlawfully detained or held hostage in foreign nations including Iran and Cuba. This particular case involves an American held in Cuba and tried by a secret military tribunal. She has been denied consular access. American lawyers have also been denied access to Ms. Alina Lopez-Miyares.

On October 2, 2017, Ms. Lopez-Miyares, a U.S. citizen, and schoolteacher, was convicted by a Cuban secret military court for alleged acts of espionage. She was sentenced to 13 years in prison. Ms. Lopez-Miyares maintains her innocence.

Ms. Lopez-Miyares is serving her sentence at the notorious Manto Negro women’s prison near Havana. Manto Negro holds persons convicted of violent crimes as well as political prisoners such as members of the civil society group Ladies in White.

Her 92-year-old mother has traveled from Miami to Cuba various times, a great sacrifice to this family of modest means. Ms. Lopez-Miyares’s family is incredibly concerned about how their daughter has been treated by Cuban authorities. Cuban officials have not been forthcoming to the family about the status of Ms. Lopez-Miyares’s difficult situation.

Ms. Lopez-Miyares has lost a lot of weight and remains in significant physical and mental distress. She is also suffering from other ailments, and the family is extremely concerned that Ms. Lopez-Miyares is not receiving proper care or has been subjected to various forms of maltreatment.

As a U.S. citizen, and pursuant to the Vienna Convention, Ms. Lopez-Miyares is entitled to consular visits by diplomatic staff posted at the U.S. Embassy in Havana. Despite repeated requests, including from Global Liberty Alliance lawyers, the Cuban government has refused access by American diplomats to Ms. Lopez-Miyares.