A notorious armed robber who has refused to eat for the past two weeks after being transferred to prison has been rushed to hospital.
Anthony John Smith, 44, began his hunger strike on July 3 after being transferred from Yatala Labour Prison to a correctional facility in Port Augusta, more than 300 kilometres from his family.
The long-serving prisoner was sent back to Yatala amid fears his protest could lead to a death in custody, but continued his hunger strike after being denied regular family visits and to raise awareness of Aboriginal deaths in custody.
‘Anthony’s requests are reasonable, he is seeking accommodation in a single cell in Division F and a return to his original regime which allowed regular visits and communication between him, me and our children,’ his partner said. Seven news.
‘The importance of maintaining these family connections cannot be overstated, especially considering the special needs of our children and the significant role a present father plays in their lives.’
Smith is understood to have been taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital on Wednesday.
His family has claimed they have been kept in the dark about his current condition and that Smith has not been allowed to.
They had previously expressed concern for his well-being, claiming he had been struggling both mentally and emotionally.
Anthony John Smith (pictured) went on hunger strike after being transferred from Yatala Labour Prison to Port Augusta.
Smith is understood to have been rushed to the Royal Adelaide Hospital on Wednesday.
“She was on her seventh day without food, struggling both mentally and emotionally (and) her well-being has been at high risk for days,” a family member posted online last week.
“This situation is more than just a transfer; it highlights the ongoing injustices and inhumane treatment he has suffered.”
Smith is serving 24 years of a 30-year sentence after pleading guilty to a series of armed robberies committed in 1999 and 2000.
He was just 19 when he robbed the Buckingham Arms Hotel in Walkerville.
He became the state’s most wanted man after escaping custody while visiting his sick father in the hospital.
While on the run he robbed two banks before finally being captured.
Smith was denied parole in 2021 after completing his 18-year non-parole period.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted the Department of Corrective Services for comment.
Smith (pictured) robbed an ANZ bank and a Myrtle Bank.
