Venezuelan Observatory Denounces Death of Detainee in 'Cruel Conditions'

The Venezuelan Observatory of Prisons (OVP) has denounced the death of Rosqui Norberto Escalona, a 70-year-old detainee at the David Viloria Penitentiary Center, known as Uribana, in Lara state. The organization described the circumstances of his death as "absolute cruelty" and pointed to alleged medical negligence. Escalona had been in delicate health since April 17, requiring transfer to the Antonio María Pineda Central Hospital. However, he was reportedly returned to prison that same weekend without his condition stabilizing.

According to testimonies cited by the OVP, Escalona's health worsened on April 21, leading to an emergency transfer back to the hospital. Despite his critical state, prison officials allegedly urged medical staff to discharge him immediately. Tragically, Rosqui Escalona died during the journey back to the penitentiary.

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The Venezuelan Observatory of Prisons denounced the death of a 70-year-old detainee in the David Viloria Penitentiary Center, known as Uribana, in Lara state. It assured that the case occurred in conditions of “absolute cruelty” and alleged medical negligence.

The OVP further condemned the alleged lack of dignity and respect for human rights following Escalona's death. Military custodians reportedly brought his body to the hospital, left it on the floor of the care area, and departed without following proper protocols. The OVP shared a video documenting this situation, highlighting a "total lack of protocol and respect for human rights."

This incident raises serious concerns about the conditions within Venezuelan prisons, particularly given that Uribana prison is subject to provisional measures from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. The OVP is demanding a thorough investigation into Escalona's death, which tragically follows two other deaths of inmates within a 48-hour period. This case underscores the ongoing challenges and systemic issues within Venezuela's correctional system.

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Even after his death, Rosqui's human dignity was trampled. The officials brought the body to the hospital, left it abandoned on the floor of the care center, and left after providing the data. A total lack of protocol and respect for human rights.