The Editor, Sir:

On Saturday, January 12, 2008, I gave a tribute at the funeral of my childhood friend, Mr. Larmond Jones. The church service was held in Happy News, Alexandria, St. Ann. This was by far the most difficult task that I have ever performed.

My friend returned to Jamaica after living in the United States of America for nearly 30 years. He worked hard and always wanted to return to live in Jamaica. I lived in the United States myself and returned to Jamaica a few years ago.

Mr Jones bought a house in Brown's Town, St Ann, and settled there. I was made to understand that he had severa with persons from the community. He was arrested for malicious destruction of property and was held at the Brown's Town Police Station. He was brought before the judge, no bail was granted and he was ordered to be held pending medical evaluation. I was informed on December 20, 2007, and immediately got in touch with the Brown's Town police, who confirmed the arrest and incarceration.

Admitted to hospital

The following day, December 21, 2007, I was on the phone all day trying to find out what was going on. I was told by one police officer that Mr. Jones was not eating or talking and that he had a mental problem. Later in the day, I called again and was told that he had been admitted to the St. Ann's Bay Hospital. I called the hospital and was told by the doctor that he was sent back to jail.

On Saturday, December 22, I went to Brown's Town Police Station to see my friend, and after much effort I was allowed to see him. He was lying on the floor which was strewn with urine and he did not recognise me. He was obviously unresponsive. I tried to get medical evaluation for him but it was too late. He died in jail on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2007.

My friend was in top physical shape and it was not unusual for him to run six miles daily. He was a kind and compassionate person and should not have died this way. I have two questions to ask: (1)Why was a dying man kept in jail? (2) If mental health intervention was needed, why was this not obtained?

My friend was no angel, but he did not deserve this undignified death in jail.

I am, etc.,

DUNBAR WILSON

Registered Nurse