The High Court in Antigua and Barbuda has ruled that a lawsuit filed by Sheryl Inigo Joseph over her son’s 2018 death in prison custody can proceed to trial, rejecting the Attorney General’s bid to have the case thrown out.

On May 9, 2025, Justice Michel dismissed arguments to strike out Joseph’s claim, citing the serious nature of the allegations and the need for proper judicial scrutiny.

Joseph is suing for negligence, breach of statutory duty, and misfeasance in public office after her son, Cordayro Joseph, reportedly died by suicide at His Majesty’s Prisons. She alleges authorities failed to provide information about his death and that the coroner did not initiate a mandatory inquest under the Coroner’s Act.

The Attorney General had not filed a defense but instead sought to dismiss the case entirely. Joseph is represented by attorney Wendel Alexander; Deputy Solicitor General Carla Brookes-Harris represents the Attorney General.

Justice Michel ruled the case must be heard on its merits, emphasizing that such claims “regarding a death in state custody” require full examination.