Man Says Scam Claims Led To Death Threats

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. -- The promise of a fantasy vacation may have come down to death threats, according to a Murfreesboro resident.

Video: Husband: Student Trips Legit Despite Scam Claims

Channel 4 News recently reported about a woman who is accused of scamming local students out of cash they thought was paying for a vacation.

An adult also claimed recently that she was duped in a similar scheme.

The family of the accused woman, Cynthia Anderson, said there's an explanation and that the situation has gone too far.

"We've had death threats from certain people with in the Rutherford County area threatening to take my family out," said Anderson’s husband, Kenneth Anderson.

Over the last several weeks, a number of people have filed police reports claiming they hired Cynthia Anderson to organize a cruise, but now the accusers said they believe she is pocketing the cash.

The latest complaint was filed on Saturday by Yolanda Thompson, who told police she paid Cynthia Anderson more than $1,800 to plan a trip.

But Kenneth Anderson said it's a rumor that was started by someone who couldn't afford to pay for their cruise. He said Cynthia Anderson is in the hospital for stress.

"We're honest people. We don't have any intention of scamming anybody," Kenneth Anderson said.

Several high school students in Rutherford County have also filed complaints claiming that Cynthia Anderson told them she was organizing a cruise for graduating seniors.

Three teens jumped on board and paid Cynthia Anderson $700 each to go to Jamaica.

"She told us to write the checks to her and she would do a money order and send the money to the travel agency," said Riverdale High School senior Tyler Hatcher.

Cynthia Anderson sent the three students a text message asking them to meet with her about the trip, but they said she never showed up and that they haven't heard from her.

Kenneth Anderson said the trips are still on and that everyone who has paid their money will be able to board a ship for Jamaica in two weeks.

"My lawyer and banker are handling the situation with the money. They are trying to get the money to the cruise company now," he said.

He said he is working with a company in Orlando called Straight A Travel to make sure everything works out.

Reporter Catharyn Campbell tried to reach the company for comment but no one was available.

Murfreesboro police said detectives are keeping an eye on the cases.

If people don't get to go on their trip or if money is not refunded, it's possible criminal charges could be filed.