South Australian prisoner Anthony John Smith in hospital amid two-week hunger strike
A South Australian prisoner who has been on a hunger strike for two weeks has been taken to hospital, but details of his condition have not been released.
Anthony John Smith began his hunger strike on July 3 when he was moved from Yatala Labour Prison in Adelaide to Port Augusta Prison, 308km northwest of the city — with his family facing a 7-hour round trip to visit him.
Smith was moved back to Yatala after his family and Aboriginal groups warned his protest could lead to a death in custody, but the 44-year-old continued to refuse food and said he was raising awareness of Aboriginal deaths in custody.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.His family said he is also protesting against being denied regular family visits.
“Anthony’s requests are reasonable, he seeks accommodation in a single cell in F Division and to return to his original regimen that allowed regular visitation and communication between him, myself, and our children,” his partner told 7NEWS.
“The importance of maintaining these family connections cannot be overstated, especially considering our children’s special needs and the significant role a present father plays in their lives.”
7NEWS understands Smith was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital on Wednesday.
His family said they are desperately trying to find out more about his health.
The Department For Correctional Services has refused to publicly comment on Smith’s case because of restrictions under the Correctional Services Act that prevents it from disclosing information on individual prisoners.
Smith pleaded guilty to a string of armed robberies committed in 1999 and 2000.
He is serving a 30-year sentence imposed in 2003, with a non-parole period of 18 years.
Smith was 19 when he committed his first robbery, at the Buckingham Arms Hotel in Walkerville in 1999.
A month after being arrested he became the state’s most wanted man, escaping custody while visiting his father in hospital.
During his time on the run, Smith committed two more robberies.
Originally published on 7NEWS
