Dean Wickliffe on hunger strike after alleged assault

Dean Wickliffe, a 77-year-old criminal, is on day eight of a hunger strike at Springhill Prison. He began the strike on March 10, seeking dignity and fair treatment. Wickliffe claims that a prison guard assaulted him on March 6, shortly after he was recalled to prison. Corrections officials have stated that Wickliffe was hospitalized because of the incident. They also confirmed that the guard involved is currently not at work and that an investigation is ongoing into the allegations. Wickliffe's lawyer, Annette Sykes, asserts that he was not only attacked but also denied the opportunity to contact her when he was brought back to the facility. Wickliffe was recalled for breaching his parole after authorities found him living in his car instead of at his approved address. Sykes expressed concern for Wickliffe, stating, "I am extremely worried for this kaumātua from Maketū whom I have helped over the years reintegrate back into the community."