The family of a man from Greater Manchester is pleading for assistance as he remains trapped in San Pedro prison, deemed a notorious “hellhole” in South America.
John Henshaw, a resident of Atherton, was apprehended on February 9th at La Paz International Airport in Bolivia on allegations of drug trafficking while backpacking. His family asserts he was detained for possessing a small quantity of cannabis.
Henshaw, 39, is held in San Pedro, infamous for its portrayal in the TV series Behind Bars: The World’s Toughest Prisons.
The facility is largely managed by inmates, who reportedly have to pay for their own cells. Higher-ranking prisoners reportedly have cells with hot tubs, whilst the rest of the prison lacks basic amenities.
Henshaw’s daughter and ex-partner express concern over his dire living conditions, saying he has to sleep on the floor with 30 other inmates and detailing his struggles with illness and inadequate nutrition.
Despite efforts by Henshaw’s family and friends, his case remains pending, with cases reportedly taking up to 90 days for assessment.
The British Embassy in Bolivia confirms their involvement, yet uncertainty looms over Henshaw’s fate as he awaits a judicial verdict.
[Image created via MidJourney]