Crime & Safety
Chicago-Area Pilot Detained During Fuel Stop In Guinea; Family Pleads For His Return
Brad Schlenker has been detained in Guinea, in West Africa. His family said the U.S. government has offered little help so far.
February 10, 2026
A Chicago-area family is pleading for help after an American pilot was jailed overseas during what was supposed to be a routine fuel stop.
Find out what's happening in Chicagofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
For nearly six weeks, Brad Schlenker has been detained in Guinea, in West Africa. His family said the U.S. government has offered little help so far.
His family said it all started with what they describe as a paperwork issue during a fuel stop in Guinea. They've been making calls to state, federal, and local leaders for help, but with no luck.
