British Tourist Faces Harsh Conditions in Notorious Bolivian Prison for Minor Drug Charge

John Henshaw, a British backpacker from Atherton, Greater Manchester, encountered a nightmare during his South American trip when he was detained by authorities at La Paz airport in Bolivia on February 9.

The 39-year-old traveller was apprehended on charges of drug trafficking due to possessing a small amount of cannabis, as reported by MailOnline.

His imprisonment unfolded within the infamous San Pedro prison, famously depicted in the TV series “Behind Bars: The World’s Toughest Prisons,” where inmates reportedly wield significant control, and cells must be paid for.

Contrary to usual prison norms, the San Pedro facility allegedly lacks internal patrols, with guards mainly stationed at the perimeter to prevent escapes.

John’s distressed family members, including his daughter and ex-partner, shared concerns about his dire living conditions inside the prison, highlighting issues like scarcity of clean water, clothing, and proper meals.

According to his accounts, John shares floor space with approximately 30 inmates, relying on just two toilets for a group of around 120 people.

Originally designed for 600 inmates, San Pedro now houses a staggering 3,000, forcing prisoners to purchase basic amenities like beds and cells from fellow inmates.

Remarkably, some privileged inmates reportedly enjoy “suites” complete with beds, wifi access, and even hot tubs.

John’s legal status remains unresolved, pending a potential 90-day wait for case assessment and processing, during which he has already spent about 50 days behind bars.

Concerned for his well-being and legal representation costs, John’s loved ones initiated a GoFundMe campaign, gathering support for his living expenses and legal proceedings, including the purchase of a cell within the prison.

The inmates often have their family living with them at San Pedro (Picture: Danielle Almeida Pereira/mediadrumworld.com)

The fundraising efforts have garnered nearly £3,000, showcasing the community’s response to his distressing situation.

His daughter, Kaitlyn Henshaw, voiced her stress and longing for her father’s safe return, emphasizing his good character and the harsh realities he faces daily in the prison.

The inmates often have their family living with them at San Pedro (Picture: Danielle Almeida Pereira/mediadrumworld.com)

Meanwhile, John’s ex-partner, Toni Rimmer, engaged in legal efforts from the UK, expressing horror at the prison’s conditions and the limited assistance available to John, even for basic necessities like food.

With communication limited and John’s health reportedly affected by prison conditions, the family remains hopeful for a swift resolution to his legal ordeal, awaiting a judge’s decision on the charges to determine his fate within San Pedro prison, as confirmed by British Embassy representatives in Bolivia.