By Belize Live News Staff: The High Court has ruled that negligence by the Belize Central Prison caused the death of inmate Jahan Abadi, a diabetic who died in 2019 while serving a six-year sentence for abetment to murder. Abadi had been incarcerated for less than a year when he passed away.
The Abadi family, represented by attorney Leeroy Banner, sued both the government and the prison, alleging that authorities failed to provide proper medical care. Justice Hondora agreed, stating that prison authorities have a legal duty to ensure inmates receive necessary treatment and medication, whether from their own facilities or the public hospital system.
In the judgment, Justice Hondora said the prison breached its duty of care to Abadi, and that their wrongful actions and omissions led directly to his death. The court held the defendants vicariously liable and ruled that the family is entitled to damages.
The government has reached a settlement with the Abadi family, following the court’s urging to resolve the matter.
