Canadian Opioid Crisis: The Tragic Case of William Ahmo
In a stirring reminiscence of the infamous US George Floyd case, a video from a Manitoba Correctional Centre has brought to light the disturbing and tragic events leading up to the death of indigenous inmate, William Ahmo. In an article published by [APTN News](https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/i-cant-breathe-court-sees-video-of-guards-overpowering-william-ahmo/), the ‘I can’t breathe scenario’ reiterated the inherent systemic issues pervading the Canadian correctional system, the opioid crisis, and the plight of the underprivileged and native communities.
Understanding The Case: The Opioid Crisis In The Spotlight
William Ahmo, a homeless man, was one of the countless victims of Canada’s burgeoning opioid crisis. He was serving a six-month sentence for breaking a window to steal a purse. What was only a further testament to Ahmo’s vulnerable state was his struggle with substance use disorder, that primarily revolved around opioids. In prison, he sought solace in medications used for opioid treatment but was faced with harsh withdrawal symptoms when not under the effect of drugs.
Death By Asphyxiation: Crime, Naloxone, and The Unfortunate Turn of Events
During his term, Ahmo required the use of naloxone – a medication designed to rapidly reverse an opioid overdose – to treat him. However, despite his reliance on the opioid antagonist, Ahmo’s health deteriorated.
The events leading to Ahmo’s death reveal systemic negligence. When he resisted transfer to a medical observation cell due to claustrophobia, seven guards overpowered him with physical and lethal force. Immobilised, Ahmo repeatedly said, “I can’t breathe.” He died of asphyxiation due to restraint, while homeless and caught in the opioid crisis.
Key Points of The Case
– William Ahmo, the victim, was a homeless man battling an opioid crisis.
– The opioid class action surrounding his case highlighted the systemic issues in the Canadian prison system.
– Ahmo required naloxone to manage his opioid withdrawal symptoms.
– Met with brutal force in prison, Ahmo died from asphyxiation. His last words, “I can’t breathe,” gruesome echoes of George Floyd’s pleas.
Towards A Better Future: A Call for Change
Ahmo’s case highlights the depth of the opioid crisis and the pivotal role correctional facilities play in dealing with inmates afflicted by substance use disorders. The opioid crisis needs to be treated not just as a medical problem requiring naloxone but as an issue intertwined with crime, poverty, and vulnerability. It signals a need for a more understanding, compassionate system that can offer the required opioid class action and tackle addiction instead of amplifying it.
In response to Ahmo’s case, an action plan has been submitted to review the correctional staff’s methods to ensure prisoners’ better treatment, especially those dealing with addiction issues. It takes into account education, training and the need for controlling force used in similar incidents.
Final Thoughts
Addressing the opioid crisis is a far more challenging task than just prescribing naloxone or locking people behind bars. It requires systemic changes in addressing vulnerabilities, including homelessness and addiction. The plight of William Ahmo is a harsh reminder of the magnitude of the opioid crisis and the lengths we need to go to ensure more lives aren’t lost in such tragic circumstances. The opioid class action now stands as an essential tool to fight this crisis and safeguard future victims like Ahmo.
