The government of Newfoundland and Labrador refutes any wrongdoing in the passing of a man nearly two years ago while he was imprisoned at Her Majesty’s Penitentiary. Seamus Flynn, aged 35, succumbed in the early hours of Dec. 2, 2023. His father, Jerome Flynn, initiated legal action last year, asserting that his son’s demise resulted from enduring inhumane conditions and severe assaults by prison staff in St. John’s.
The province submitted a statement of defense in the Newfoundland and Labrador Supreme Court over a year following the initial claim. According to court documents, the government acknowledges its responsibility for correctional services administration but contests any insinuation that Flynn’s death was a consequence of the government’s actions or inactions.
The case is pending trial, with no scheduled dates yet. Seamus Flynn had battled drug addiction and was incarcerated after pleading guilty to various charges, including theft and weapons offenses. Described as kind, gentle, and loving by his father, Flynn’s lawsuit argues that the province failed in its duty to protect him from harm, cruel treatment, and provide adequate medical attention.
Seamus Flynn’s mother disclosed that her son contracted viral influenza, leading to a bacterial infection, severe pneumonia, and septicemia before his demise. In a distressing revelation less than two weeks before his passing, Flynn reported to CBC News about alleged unjustified physical assaults by prison guards, resulting in injuries including lost teeth and impaired vision and hearing.
Following Flynn’s death, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary initiated an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his demise. Although no charges were pressed following a six-month investigation, Jerome Flynn persists in seeking damages and expenses, including funeral costs, from the province. The government, in turn, seeks the dismissal of the claim and cost compensation.
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