Normando Hernández González

Normando Hernández González

Independent Journalist and
Director of Camaguey College of Independent
Journalists, 25 year sentence

Normando Hernández González was arrested on March 18, 2003 in Camaguey, Cuba, during the "black spring" arrests of seventy five political activists.  He was sentenced on April 14, 2003 to twenty five years imprisonment by the Camaguey Provincial Court's division for crimes against state security, under Article 91 of the Cuban Penal Code, which condemns "acts against the independence or territorial integrity of the state".   He was accused of reporting on state-run services and for criticizing state run entities such as tourism, agriculture, fishing, and cultural affairs.  Hernández worked for Radio Marti, a US-based radio station, and also received compensation for his reports from the United States, both of which are considered illegal activity in Cuba.

From 2003 to 2006, Hernández was held in Kilo 5 ½ prison in Pinar del Rio, 400 km from his home and family.  It was difficult for his wife, Yarai Reyes Marin, to visit him, as they had a new born baby.  He was held in an insect and rodent-ridden cell along side dangerous and mentally unstable common prisoners.  He was held incommunicado in solitary confinement for several months,.  While confined, he was not allowed a bed, and a blanket was permitted for only a few hours during the night.  The poor living conditions and lack of proper nutrition have led to multiple health conditions, including anemia, high blood pressure, fainting spells, fatigue, fever, nausea, diarrhea, chronic gastro-intestinal disorder, and tuberculosis.  A hospital was  unable to treat Hernandez's severe conditions because of their lack of resources.  Because of his gastro-intestinal problems, he has lost thirty five pounds. 

On September 10, 2006, Hernandez was transferred to Kilo 7 prison in Camaguey.  He is constantly forced to change cells, and is denied proper medical attention.  In February of 2007, he was attacked in his cell by a soldier for defending another prisoner.  Hernández has a poor relationship with the guards because he often stands up for himself and organizes hunger strikes.  In April 2007, Hernandez was granted a humanitarian visa by Costa Rican Legislators. Cuban officials refuse to honor this visa and he remains in prison. 

His medical conditions continue to worsen, with lesions in his stomach and tumors on his gallbladder.  Hernandez's wife is concerned about his worsening health and living conditions.  She attempted to bring him medication, but was continuously turned town.  When trying to visit her husband, she was humiliated with body searches on several occasions, only to be told that she was not permitted to see him.