Arabic version: أم تسأل عن الرعاية بعد وفاة ابنتها في سجن بانديو

Priscilla Kelly is mourning the loss of her daughter, Patricia Howell, who died in Bandyup Women’s Prison in Perth. Patricia was found unresponsive in her cell on March 16. The cause of death is unknown and a report is being prepared for the coroner. According to ABC News, this incident marks the second death of an inmate at the facility within a two-month span.

Priscilla Kelly expressed her heartbreak, stating that her daughter had been crying out for help for years and had faced significant trauma throughout her life. Patricia had previously spent time in multiple mental health facilities and had a history of complex mental health issues. Her mother emphasized that Patricia deserved more help during her incarceration.

In response to the rising number of deaths in custody in Western Australia, calls for a transparent government review are intensifying. Records indicate that deaths in custody have doubled since 2024, with eight recorded deaths in custody in WA so far this year. Community advocates, including Lorraine Pryor from Voice of Hope, are urging the government to include Indigenous voices in discussions about reforming the system.

A 2023 audit of Bandyup Women’s Prison highlighted significant gaps in mental health services, particularly affecting incarcerated Aboriginal women. Despite the challenges, Priscilla Kelly remains hopeful that her daughter’s tragic death will lead to meaningful change, ensuring that no other mother has to endure the same pain. She finds solace in believing that her daughter has found peace in death.