Family files wrongful death claim over prisoner’s death in custody

A wrongful death claim has been filed against the government by the family of Chinlee Robinson, who died in custody at His Majesty’s Prison last year.

The claim, lodged with the Attorney General’s Office, alleges negligence by prison and police officials in the death of the 23-year-old, who was found dead on 24 January 2025, hours after being granted bail on a charge of stealing a mobile phone.

Evidence heard at a Coroner’s Inquest last week highlighted conflicting accounts of the circumstances surrounding Robinson’s death. A 15-year-old inmate told the court he heard a brief scream late on the night of 23 January, before silence fell across the prison. He also described limited overnight supervision, with inmates locked in their cells from mid-afternoon.

Medical evidence presented to the inquest found Robinson died from oxygen deprivation, neck trauma and heart failure. His brother told the court Robinson was a fit footballer with no known medical conditions.

Robinson had spent about five weeks in detention and was said to be distressed after learning his release was delayed due to passport issues.

The family’s attorney, Wendel Alexander, has called for a full homicide investigation. Police have rejected that request, with Assistant Commissioner Clifton Cabral saying there was no evidence of foul play, while Superintendent of Prisons Colonel Trevor Pennyfeather has said strangulation was the likely cause of death.

The claim seeks general and punitive damages, legal costs and interest.

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