Vicious Attack Inside the Trop in A.C.

Guests at Atlantic City’s Tropicana Casino Hotel expecting a relaxing vacation got a little more than they bargained for after a tense police stand-off Thursday morning.

Police say that 34-year-old Maurice Medlin and 31-year-old Cynthia Walker were walking through the hotel halls, searching for someone to rob.

Around 9 a.m., they came across Allan and Linda Espinoza, a married couple from Lancaster County coming out of their room on the 11th floor. That’s when police say the two broke into the couple's room where Medlin pistol-whipped Allan.

“He pushed me back, hit me in the head with a pistol, pushed me down on the bed and pointed a gun to my head," said Allan.

Linda was able to escape the room however, running down to the 10th floor where she yelled for help.

“There was no way I could have helped him if I stayed," said Linda. "I just ran for help." 

Police then say that a hotel security guard was able to apprehend Walker in a stairwell. Medlin was able to flee back into his own room on the 21st floor and barricade himself inside.

Medlin allegedly used his real name when he booked the room.

"A dumb criminal," said Allan. "But still a criminal." 

Authorities say that they tried to talk Medlin out of his room for nearly 90 minutes. During the ordeal, they forced other 21st floor residents out of their rooms.

“I was leaving my room and the cops were all over and they told me I had to get off the floor,” said Mary Kobrinsky, a hotel guest.

Finally, SWAT officers broke into the room after Medlin cracked the door open and were able to capture him.

Police say that the suspects did not steal anything from the couple. While Allan had a large bruise on his head, he did not go to the hospital.

After the suspects were taken into custody, the frightened guests were allowed back into their rooms.

Walker and Medlin are both charged with several offenses.

Despite the traumatic ordeal, the Espinozas are staying at the hotel until Sunday. The casino has already comped them champagne, meals and a free massage.

Yet even more valuable than the gifts, is the lesson that they learned.

"People need to keep your chain on your door when you open it," said Linda. "You don't think this is going to happen to you but it happened to us." 

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