Government Approves Nearly US$50,000 for Senior Sergeant Jeffrey Benjamin’s Overseas Treatment

The government has committed nearly US$50,000 to ensure Senior Sergeant Jeffrey Benjamin receives urgent medical treatment in Trinidad and Tobago as doctors work to save one of his legs following a serious traffic accident.

Benjamin is expected to be transported by air ambulance to Southern Medical Services in Trinidad and Tobago on Friday, July 10, where he will undergo specialized treatment after sustaining severe injuries in the crash.

The Medical Benefits Scheme will provide US$40,000 upfront to cover his medical care and hospital stay. Health Minister Michael Joseph approved the release of the funds, which will later be offset against insurance payments expected to cover a portion of the expense.

Cabinet has also approved an additional US$8,104 to cover the cost of the air ambulance needed to transport the senior police officer to Trinidad.

The government’s assistance was confirmed during a meeting between Acting Prime Minister and Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin and the executive members of the Police Welfare Association on Friday.

Sir Steadroy said the support package represents the outcome of efforts by government officials to coordinate the necessary assistance for the injured officer.

He highlighted the role of Education Minister and Member of Parliament for St. John’s Rural South Daryll Matthew, who he said was among the first to mobilize support for Benjamin, while Health Minister Michael Joseph remained in contact with the officer’s family during the process.

The government has also pushed back against criticism that there was a lack of urgency in responding to Benjamin’s medical needs.

The Medical Benefits Scheme said the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre had been working closely with hospitals in Martinique and Trinidad and Tobago to identify the best option for the officer’s treatment.

The hospital in Trinidad only submitted its invoice on Wednesday, several days after agreeing to accept Benjamin as a patient, allowing arrangements for payment and transportation to be completed.

Sir Steadroy welcomed the resolution, maintaining that the government had been focused from the beginning on ensuring Senior Sergeant Benjamin received the medical attention required following the accident.

Members of the Police Welfare Association and colleagues of the injured officer have continued to rally support as Benjamin prepares to travel overseas for treatment.