Conclave
£10.99Following the death of prisoner Calum Inglis in October 2021, a private prison in West Lothian is now facing prosecution. The move has been initiated against Sodexo Ltd and NHS Lothian due to alleged failures in managing the medical care of Inglis, who passed away 12 days after contracting Covid-19. Inglis, a 34-year-old individual with asthma, was discovered deceased in his cell at HMP Addiewell.
This legal action marks the first instance of a private prison being prosecuted in Scotland. The decision has been positively received by lawyer Aamer Anwar, who expressed approval for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) for pursuing this case. The development follows a campaign spearheaded by Inglis’ family members advocating for justice.
Mr. Anwar highlighted the significance of this prosecution in the context of approximately 6,000 reported Covid-related deaths under review by the Crown Office, which includes 15 fatalities that occurred in prisons. Inglis had contracted the virus while serving a sentence for serious assault, ultimately succumbing to what was described as a “slow and agonizing death.” His loved ones remember him as a cherished son and brother. The family aims to ensure that their enduring love and advocacy for Inglis will have a lasting impact.
Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain KC expressed empathy for the profound loss experienced by Inglis’ family, vowing a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding his passing. The commitment was made to ensure that all pertinent information is diligently examined by relevant authorities and deliberated upon within the appropriate legal framework. Meanwhile, representatives from HMP Addiewell and the Scottish Prison Service conveyed their condolences to Inglis’ family, acknowledging the ongoing challenges faced by the bereaved during this difficult period. The involved parties are cooperating with investigative authorities in preparation for any future inquiries
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