The Antiguan government has approved approximately US$50,000 to fund medical treatment and transportation for Senior Sergeant Jeffrey Benjamin, a police officer who sustained serious leg injuries in a recent traffic crash. According to Antigua News Room, the officer is expected to be airlifted to Trinidad and Tobago on Friday, July 10, as part of efforts to save one of his injured limbs.
Cabinet approved US$40,000 through the Medical Benefits Scheme to cover treatment and hospital stay at Southern Medical Services in Trinidad. An additional US$8,104 has been allocated to meet the cost of an air ambulance. Officials noted that a portion of the total medical expenses is expected to be recovered through insurance.
The financial assistance was confirmed following a meeting between Acting Prime Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin and the Police Welfare Association. Health Minister Michael Joseph and Education Minister Daryll Matthew both played a role in coordinating support for the injured officer, government officials said.
Authorities also pushed back against suggestions that assistance had been delayed. Officials pointed out that the Trinidad hospital only issued its invoice on Wednesday, after confirming it would accept Senior Sergeant Benjamin as a patient.
