Not only is this cruel punishment being imposed without explanation, and preventing Gerardo from seeing his lawyers at a crucial stage in his preparation for Habeas Corpus, but it has also been imposed while Gerardo is experiencing health problems.
In April Gerardo requested a medical appointment for medical conditions developed while in prison, including high blood pressure. Three months later, on 20 July 2010 he was seen by a doctor. The doctor prescribed a blood test for a bacterium which is circulating throughout the prison, but instead, the following day, 21 July 2010, Gerardo was put in the hole.
This is the third time in Gerardo’s twelve years in prison that he has been placed in the hole while preparing for an appeal. He is currently unable to see or have any contact with this legal team while under this inhumane treatment.
Cuba Solidarity Campaign is calling on affiliates to write to the US State Department, US Justice Department and Federal Bureau of Prisons urgently asking that Gerardo be:
- Returned immediately to the general population
- Receive urgent medical attention
- Allowed visits by his wife Adriana Perez
- Given space and respect as he prepares for his appeals
CSC has also launched a public appeal on this issue and online details can be found at: http://www.cuba-solidarity.org.uk/news.asp?ItemID=1861