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Information Pack for British Prisoners in
Ecuador
Author
Department
Date
Quito Consular Team
Consular Section British Embassy Quito
1 April 2015
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Contents
Who can help? ........................................................................................................................ 4
About the Ecuador Consular Network ..................................................................................... 4
Who are the Consular Representatives? ................................................................................ 4
Contact Information: ................................................................................................................ 5
British Embassy Quito ............................................................................................................. 5
FIRST STEPS ......................................................................................................................... 6
Who will know that I have been detained? .............................................................................. 6
What will my family be told? .................................................................................................... 6
What will the Consulate do? ................................................................................................... 6
PRISON CONDITIONS / SERVICES ..................................................................................... 8
Arrival at prison ....................................................................................................................... 8
General prison conditions ....................................................................................................... 8
How can I receive money? ...................................................................................................... 9
Can I work in prison? .............................................................................................................. 9
Can I receive medical and dental treatment? ......................................................................... 9
Food and Diet ....................................................................................................................... 10
Mail/Parcels .......................................................................................................................... 11
Can I have a radio, CD player, cassette player and television? ........................................... 11
Can I make telephone calls? ................................................................................................. 11
What is there to read? ........................................................................................................... 11
Leisure and entertainment .................................................................................................... 11
Drugs .................................................................................................................................... 12
What can the Embassy buy for you and what is allowed in prison? ..................................... 13
THE ECUADOREAN JUDICIAL SYSTEM ........................................................................... 14
Is the system the same as in the UK? .................................................................................. 14
What happens when I am arrested? ..................................................................................... 14
For how long can I be remanded in custody? ....................................................................... 16
What happens when I am charged? ..................................................................................... 16
What provision is there for bail? ............................................................................................ 17
What kind of legal assistance is available? ........................................................................... 17
What happens at the trial? .................................................................................................... 17
Sentences ............................................................................................................................. 17
How can appeals be made? ................................................................................................. 18
What provision is there for reduction of sentence (remission) e.g. for good behaviour? ...... 19
What provision is there for early release e.g. on parole? ...................................................... 19
What provision is there for clemency or pardon? .................................................................. 20
What about any financial penalties? ..................................................................................... 21
Is transfer to another prison within Ecuador possible? ......................................................... 21
Is transfer to the UK a possibility? ........................................................................................ 22
What are the procedures for release and deportation? ........................................................ 22
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THE BENEFITS SYSTEM IN ECUADOR – Factsheet for prisoners................................. 23
TRANSFERS TO THE UK – Strasbourg Prisoners Transfer Agreement (PTA) ................... 24
Local Requirements under the Strasbourg Prisoners Transfer Agreement: ......................... 24
Repatriation of Prisoners to England and Wales .................................................................. 26
PRISONERS ABROAD ........................................................................................................ 27
ANNEXES ............................................................................................................................. 28
Annex 1: LIST OF ENGLISH SPEAKING LAWYERS IN ECUADOR .................................. 28
Quito ..................................................................................................................... 28
Guayaquil .............................................................................................................. 28
Annex 2: LIST OF PRIVATE TRANSLATORS/INTERPRETERS IN ECUADOR ................ 28
Quito ..................................................................................................................... 28
Guayaquil .............................................................................................................. 28
Annex 3: FCO leaflets .......................................................................................................... 28
Annex 4: Prisoners Abroad - Leaflet and Forms .................................................................. 28
Annex 5: Fair Trials International - Questionnaire and Leaflets ............................................ 28
GLOSSARY OF TERMS ...................................................................................................... 29
Spanish Alphabet .................................................................................................................. 33
Prisoners abroad - Key phrases - English into Spanish ........................................................ 40
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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INTRODUCTION
This guide aims to explain the Ecuadorean legal and prison system to British Nationals who
are imprisoned in Ecuador. You can also read about how to apply for a transfer back to a UK
prison.
Who can help?
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO):
The FCO is represented overseas by its Embassies and Consulates (High Commissions in
Commonwealth countries). Both employ consular officers, and one of their duties is to
provide help and advice to any British National who gets into difficulty in a foreign country.
About the Ecuador Consular Network
We are impartial; we are not here to judge you. We aim to make sure that you are treated
properly and fairly in accordance with Ecuadorean regulations, and that you are treated no
less favourably than other prisoners.
We can answer questions about your welfare and about prison regulations but you must ask
your lawyer or the court about legal matters. The attached list of lawyers is provided by the
British Embassy for your convenience, but neither Her Majesty‟s Government, nor any official
of the Consulate, take any responsibility for the competence or probity of any firm/advocate
on the list or for the consequences of any legal action initiated or advice given.
We cannot get you out of prison, pay fines or stand bail or interfere in local judicial
procedures to get you out of prison nor secure you an earlier trial date; we cannot investigate
a crime.
We have tried to make sure that the information in this booklet is accurate and up to date, but
the British Embassy cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions in the
information. If in doubt, contact a lawyer.
Who are the Consular Representatives?
British Embassy Quito
Veronica Ruiz
Vice Consul
British Embassy Quito
Annika Dann
Pro Consul
Guayaquil British Honorary Consulate
Colin Armstrong
Honorary Consul Guayaquil
Maria Fatima Rocio Torres
Honorary Vice Consul Guayaquil
Cuenca British Honorary Consulate
Andrew Cocker
Honorary Consul Galapagos
Galapagos British Honorary Consulate
Andrew Balfour
Honorary Consul Cuenca
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[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
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Contact Information:
British Embassy Quito
Consular Section
Avenida Naciones Unidas y República de El Salvador.
Edificio Citiplaza, 14th Floor
Quito
Tel: 02 2970 800 / 801
Fax: 02 2870 807
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.gov.uk/world/ecuador
Working Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 08:30 to 12:30 / 13:30 to 16:30
Friday: 08:30 to 13:00
Consular Section - Public Attention Hours (online appointment regime):
Monday to Thursday: 09:00 to 11:00
Honorary Consulate Guayaquil
c/o Agripac - Guayaquil
Email: [email protected]
Honorary Consulate Galápagos Islands
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island
Email: [email protected]
Honorary Consulate Cuenca
Email: [email protected]
Address for Postal orders, bankers draft or Building Society cheques sent
from the UK – sent by families of detainees for Prison Comforts
Address in the UK (as of 1 April 2012):
Account Receivables - Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Corporate Service Centre
PO Box 6108
Milton Keynes, MK10 1PX
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FIRST STEPS
Who will know that I have been detained?
As soon as a British National is arrested and detained in Ecuador, the Ecuadorean
authorities must inform the British Embassy in Quito or one of our Honorary Consulates
upon the prisoner's formal request. However, we are frequently not informed within 24
hours. It is essential that you inform the British Embassy or Consulate as soon as possible
after your arrest. It is your right to do so. You may also be able to make a phone call to the
Embassy or to family (with a covering charge).
What will my family be told?
For confidentiality reasons we are not permitted to tell anyone that you have been detained
or what the charges are without your permission.
However, should you wish to inform your family, we can make contact with them through our
colleagues at the FCO in London. We can give your family or next of kin advice on prison
procedure, regulations, and how you are doing. We can also pass on any messages from
you.
What will the Consulate do?
We aim to make contact with you within 24 hours of being notified of your arrest and visit you
within 48 hours.
In case they wish to transfer any money to you, we can tell your friends or family how to
transfer money through the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). They can send up to
£100 per month free of charge by sending a Postal Order, Building Society Cheque or
Bankers Draft (pounds sterling only) payable to "The Foreign and Commonwealth Office".
Any amount above £100 or a second payment within the calendar month will be subject to a
charge. All prison funds should be addressed to:
Accounts Receivable
Foreign & Commonwealth Office
Corporate Services Centre
PO Box 6108
Milton Keynes
MK10 1PX
If you have dual nationality and are imprisoned in the country of your other nationality the
British Consul cannot assist you formally, under international law. However, Consular staff
will provide whatever informal assistance the local authorities will allow. Your relatives and
friends can contact the above address for advice from the FCO in London.
During our routine visits you will have the opportunity to discuss any health issues, security
concerns, your treatment in prison and any other general issues that you wish to raise with
our consular staff. At each consular visit, our staff will complete a "Visit Report Form". If
there is any information that you would prefer not to disclose to a Next of Kin you should let
us know during the visit.
If appropriate, we will consider approaching the local authorities if you are not treated in line
with internationally-accepted standards.
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Would I have a criminal record in the UK?
You should be aware that if you have been convicted for certain serious offences, such as
sexual assault or drugs trafficking, we are obliged to inform the UK police. It is therefore
possible that information about this offence may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check
were carried out by a prospective employer.
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PRISON CONDITIONS / SERVICES
In this chapter you will find information on daily life in an Ecuadorean jail. Prisoners say that
nothing is guaranteed as things can change on a whim, so the advice of more experienced
prisoners, plus your own common sense, is essential.
Arrival at prison
When you arrive at the prison you will be supplied with 2 sets of uniforms (1 x shorts, 1 x
jeans, 1 x shirt, 1 x jumper, 1 sport jogging pants and top) and a pair of shoes. A "toiletries
kit” containing toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, towel, washing detergent, and sanitary towels
for women is also supplied.
An account will be opened for you in the prison shop called „Economato‟ where you can buy
some snacks and basic toiletries. See „How can I receive money‟ section on page 8 for more
details.
If you have committed a drugs offence, see the „what happens when I am arrested‟ section
on page 13 for more information about the arrest process and what will happen between
your arrest and arrival at the prison.
General prison conditions
There are 31 prisons1 (known as rehabilitation centres) in Ecuador holding 25,000 prisoners.
The main cause of overcrowding is the high rate of pre-trial detention and the lengthy delays
in completing the judicial process. The government has therefore undertaken a reform of the
judicial and prison systems aiming for more effective rehabilitation of prisoners.
In December 2013, February 2014 and November 2014, new regional prisons2 in Guayaquil,
Latacunga and Cuenca respectively were inaugurated, all of them with a completely new
management model mainly focused on stricter security regulations and social rehabilitation
programmes. Due to the new strict management policy, prisoners no longer have access to
cash, cooking of their own food or private electric devices. However, more workshop areas
are being implemented. The above brand new prisons have replaced the old prisons in
Quito, Latacunga, Cuenca, Loja and other cities.
At the moment, only Latacunga and Cuenca regional centres are holding female prisoners.
Current changes in place, under the new prison management model:
The new model mainly aims to avoid violence, corruption and extortion, through strict
security regulations.
Each cell (in minimum and medium security) has capacity for 6 inmates (3 bunk beds). Each
cell has a toilet and wash basin. Showers are mostly separate and shared (except from the
maximum security male cells and the female cells). Hot water is rarely supplied.
A laundry and drying service is provided twice a month. No razors are allowed but barbers
are provided twice a week.
1
63 centres: amongst “rehabilitation centres” (prisons), remand prisons, juvenile centres and early-release shelters.
“Centro de Privación de Libertad Zonal 8 Regional Guayas” in Guayaquil (main coastal city, at about 7-8 hours drive from
Quito or 45 minutes flight) ; “Centro de Privación de Libertad Zonal Regional Cotopaxi” in Latacunga (in the south of Quito, at
about 1.5 hour drive); Centro de Privación de Libertad Regional Azuay in Cuenca (Turi – in the south of Ecuador, at about 7-8
hours drive from Quito or 45 minutes flight).
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Prisoners are confined to their cells for around 11 hours a day, from 18h00 to 06h00. They
are only out of their cells twice a day, for 2 hours each time. When more workshops are
installed, the time allowed outside the cells may be longer.
How can I receive money?
At the new prison management model cash is no longer accessible, so in principle there
should not be any extortion. There is a prison shop in place called „Economato‟ which allows
a monthly deposit to be made on your behalf. You can access the shop during fixed times
and find out how much credit you have, and purchase snacks and basic toiletry items using
your credit. This system is in place to avoid the need for any cash circulating in the prison.
The monthly prison shop limit is approximately between $20 - $40 USD, and this varies
according to your security level (Minimum/medium/maximum security). Minimum security
prisoners usually have a higher monthly limit, and in some cases women are allowed a
higher monthly limit for the purchase of sanitary items.
Prisoners Abroad (see page 26) can help prisoners who have no other financial support, by
sending a monthly grant via the Embassy. This is used mainly for deposit into the prison
shop, but in exceptional circumstances could be used to purchase other small items such as
toiletries, only with permission from the prison.
Let the Embassy know if you need this support, or write directly to the Prisoners Abroad
caseworker for Ecuador.
If family wish to send money to you for use in the „Economato‟ prison shop, they can send
this via the Embassy, and the Embassy will make the deposit in the shop for you. Your family
should contact the Foreign Office in London and a caseworker will explain to them how they
can deposit funds.
Please see the „Food and diet‟ section for more information on Economato prices and list of
items.
Can I work in prison?
The new prison management model is aiming to offer prisoners more activities, through
activity workshops such as woodwork and painting. However this is still in a transitional
phase. The workshops are well equipped but limited places are available and demand is
high.
There is the possibility of future paid work being available inside prisons, but this is still under
discussion and is not in place yet.
Can I receive medical and dental treatment?
The Ecuadorean Ministry of Justice and Human Rights signed an agreement with the
Ministry of Health in 2013, putting them completely in charge of prison healthcare, which
involves the implementation of health attention units (level 1) inside each prison´s wings.
This agreement, aiming to improve free healthcare for prisoners, also entitles the Ministry of
Health to appoint the necessary doctors for each prison (including a prison coordinator), as
well as to arrange the supply of basic medication (via a pharmacy inside each new regional
prisons) and the installation of basic medical equipment. However, this is still in the
implementation phase, especially at the old prisons.
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The above agreement aims to set out a preventative healthcare programme inside all
prisons, and opening a medical history file for each prisoner, even those with no current
health problem, so that they can keep track of any treatment received while in prison.
If you need medical or dental treatment you should ask to see the prison doctor or dentist.
Depending on the number of patients, you may either be assisted the same day or within a
few days. It is unlikely that you will be treated by a doctor who speaks English.
If medicine or a specific treatment (serious illness or need for regular medication/tests) is not
available at the prison, in principle the coordinating doctor will arrange an appointment at one
of the nearest public hospitals with better facilities in place. The prison authorities and
coordinating doctor will also arrange a security escort.
If you have a long-standing medical problem and have received treatment for it in the UK, it
may be useful if you have your medical records, or at least a report, sent from your doctor in
the UK. Your UK doctor can send the report via the Embassy, addressed to you.
Food and Diet
There is a provision of food within the prison. Prison food („rancho‟) is free but may not be
sufficient to fulfil your dietary needs. You would need funds to pay for supplements to your
diet, which can be bought from the prison shop.
The 'rancho' is supplied 3 times a day. The prison food has been transferred to private
catering companies. The “rancho” typically contains a combination of soup, rice, beans,
potatoes, eggs, spaghetti, and chicken/meat.
Most British prisoners have commented that they cannot live on the “rancho” alone.
Prisoners Abroad can supply prisoners with vitamin supplements, if requested. In general, at
the new prisons, vitamins have been authorised by the prison´s doctor.
The new prison model will allow only the „rancho‟ food, prisoners are no longer able to cook
for themselves as they could in the old prisons. However, basic snacks can be bought from
the prison shop „Economato‟.
Approximate prices of items in the Economato shop (US$):
Coke (fizzy drinks)
Water
Crisps
Biscuits
Chocolate cake
Yogurt with cereal
Yogurt
Jelly
Flavored Milk
Nectar Juice
Limonade/Orange
Sweet packs
Chewing gum
(0.45 bottle - 0.75 for 1.5 litre)
(0.20 per 500 cc bottle)
(0.35-0.50)
(0.25-0.50)
(0.45-0.55)
(0.80)
(0.60-0.90 for 250/500cc)
(0.60)
(0.70)
(0.77)
(0.45)
(0.50)
(0.40)
Toiletries
Toilet roll paper
Tooth paste
Tooth brush
(0.28)
(1.10)
(0.95)
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Shampoo
Deodorant
Soap
(0.25)
(0.30)
(0.95)
Mail/Parcels
Friends and family can send mail to the Embassy and we deliver to the prison during our
quarterly visits. The Embassy is not able to forward mail on your behalf back to the UK. All
letters are opened and checked by prison staff before they are given to prisoners. Mail
cannot be sent directly to the prison from the UK since there is no postal system in the
prison.
The UK charity Prisoners Abroad can provide you with pre-paid international envelopes, so
that you can send post (letters only) to friends or family in the UK. Embassy staff can give
you these envelopes during their quarterly visits.
Delivery of parcels is no longer permitted in the new regional prisons, due to the new prison
management model and security restrictions. Delivery of letters may be allowed, but they
may have to be opened, which does not guarantee the privacy of the content.
We will reply to your written correspondence within our target of 20 working days (excluding
postage time), but only if your correspondence is of what we consider to be a “serious
nature”, e.g. if you have a serious health issue for which you need our help or if you have
serious concerns for your safety. Please raise any issues with us during consular visits or by
calling us. Unfortunately we are not longer allowed to call you given that the public telephone
booths inside the prison do not accept incoming calls.
Can I have a radio, CD player, cassette player and television?
These items are no longer allowed in the new prison management model prisons. Cells and
common areas do not have plug sockets installed. Instead, a communal TV, DVD and CD
player have been supplied and are centrally controlled by the prison authorities.
Can I make telephone calls?
Guayas and Cotopaxi new regional prisons have telephone booths installed. However, calls
are still monitored by the prison authorities. You are usually allowed to make 2 calls per week
on specific dates. You can buy a telephone card (with pin number) from the prison shop.
Plans are to use an internet-based video-call system (similar to Skype) for foreign prisoners
and also for court hearings, but this is still being reviewed.
What is there to read?
Most prisons have some English books and other reading materials in their library, including
the brand new regional prisons. British citizens living locally, tourists, the Embassy and
Prisoners Abroad make donations of English language books/magazines to prisoners. Books
are the only items which may not need strict permission to be sent to you at the regional
prisons under the new prison management model.
Leisure and entertainment
Learning the language: Speaking Spanish will help you understand what is going on,
communicate your needs and also ease the boredom and mental isolation of prison life. The
Embassy can provide you with photocopies of a Spanish self-learning book.
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The Ecuadorean government is aiming to reform the whole penitentiary system and provide
all detainees in Ecuador with education, healthcare, leisure activities and communication with
families. Therefore the new regional prisons are designed to have well equipped workshops
and activities, although most of these are still being implemented.
In the “patio” or on the exercise yard, prisoners play sport such as football, volleyball and
basketball. In the women´s prison aerobics is very popular.
Drugs
Despite the local authorities´ efforts, drugs are still freely available within old Ecuadorean
prisons, and are allegedly becoming available in the new prisons. Do everything you can to
find other ways to cope with life in prison and avoid consuming drugs. Not only will drug
consumption further weaken your health, but drug taking very often results in the creation of
personal debts with other prisoners. These debts will attract accelerated rates of interest and
if not paid off, could result in serious verbal and physical harassment. Through the new
prison management policy, the local authorities are aiming to completely control this
problem. In the new regional prisons they have therefore strengthened the medical
assistance for drugs “withdrawal” symptoms.
How can I complain about mistreatment?
If you feel you have been a victim of mistreatment by prison staff or another inmate, you
should contact the Embassy. We can raise the issue with the Ministry of Justice and Human
Rights, and the prison authorities. We will only do this with your consent, and we will agree
with you what information you are happy for us to share. In principle, you will also need to
submit an official denunciation in writing, providing as much detail as possible, so that your
claim can be initially investigated by an intelligence unit within the prison, which is part of the
Ministry of Justice and Human Rights. Depending on the case, the district prosecutor
(fiscalía) will then be requested to open an inquest and investigation. The Embassy can help
you follow up on progress of this investigation. If necessary, and only with your consent, we
can ask the authorities to move you to a different part of the prison for your protection.
However, given that this is at the discretion of the prison authorities, we cannot guarantee
that our requests will be approved.
VISITS
As described in the „Food and Diet‟ section, under the new prison regime, deliveries of funds
will be only allowed through a standard monthly deposit system, into the prison´s shop.
How do my family and friends arrange a visit?
The new management regime prisons in Guayaquil, Latacunga and Cuenca have
implemented a new visit system. Prisoners should register their intended visitors with the
prison officials in advance. Authorised visitors will then be granted a visiting date and notified
by call and SMS. Visits will be run in groups from 08:00 to 15:00. Visitors can stay for a
maximum of one hour. Family visits are very structured. Maximum 2 adults and 1 child per
visit, who are not allowed to bring in anything, except one bottle of water.
We advise your family to contact us well in advance so that we can inform the prison
authorities and provide assistance in the visiting arrangements. Consular officers may be
able to accompany your family during their first visit to the prison; subsequent visits by your
family will be unaccompanied.
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How many visits am I allowed?
Visits per month are related to the security level wing in which you have been placed:
Minimum Security:
3 family members; 1 conjugal
Medium Security:
2 family members; 1 conjugal
Maximum Security: 1 family member, 1 conjugal
Consular visits
Consular staff from the Embassy hope to visit you every 3 months. In the new regional prison
in Guayaquil, our Honorary Vice Consul will accompany the quarterly visit. You will be taken
to the prison visiting area.
Other types of visitor
Priests and representatives from local church groups or non-government organisations visit
the prisons. However, from now on they may need to get a special authorisation to undertake
their regular visits.
Occasionally the Embassy is approached by British and other foreign volunteers, wishing to
visit people in prison in Ecuador. We would always seek your verbal or written consent for
someone to visit you before giving them any information about you.
What can a visitor bring?
In old prisons, visitors can bring „prison comforts‟. All bags and parcels are searched before
entry and the authorities have the right to withhold items they consider unacceptable.
However, at the new regional prisons visitors are only allowed to bring one bottle of water.
There is a locker area at the entrance of the prison, so that visitors could leave their
belongings.
What can the Embassy buy for you and what is allowed in prison?
The new regional prisons in Guayaquil, Latacunga and Cuenca do not allow any items to be
brought inside. Therefore, the Embassy is no longer allowed to buy things for you.
Only some medicines may be permitted, as long as there is a prescription supplied by the
prison´s doctor and prior authorisation.
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THE ECUADOREAN JUDICIAL SYSTEM
(This section also covers APPEALS, REMISSION, PAROLE, CLEMENCY AND TRANSFER)
The Embassy/Consulate cannot interfere with the Ecuadorean Judicial system. We cannot
ask for your case to be judged quickly or ask the authorities to waive any penalties. Below
you will find more information about the Ecuadorean judicial system.
Is the system the same as in the UK?
In short, no, although on the face of it there are many similarities. Prisoners are presumed
innocent until proven guilty; they have a right to a legal representative, an interpreter, fair trial
and appeal. However there are fundamental differences. For example, there is no jury
system and judicial processes are not always correctly followed and can be very
bureaucratic.
As of 5 September 20113, there are some reforms taking place in the Ecuadorean
judicial system. This currently means that more funds should be allocated to improve
the efficiency of the system, including by appointing new staff and judges, building
new courts and other judicial building, and buying more equipment to help speed up
the process. Reforms are aimed to be achieved by 2015.
What happens when I am arrested?
Quito
(Under a drug offence)
If you are arrested at the airport you will initially spend some time in a police cell. Police
should read the charges and your rights. Whilst you are there police will usually gather
evidence and interrogate you. You will be taken from the airport to cells in the Anti
Narcotics Police Station, in the north of Quito, where a state prosecutor will start the first
phase of investigation.
Although the law states that you are allowed to immediately appoint a lawyer and interpreter,
in the case of drug offences, this will only be permitted shortly before giving your statement.
You have the right to remain in silent until you get a lawyer and proper legal guidance.
You should also ask for some time and privacy to speak alone with your lawyer (or public
defendant) to brief him/her on the circumstances of your arrest before you give your initial
statement or deposition before the Prosecutor. You will then be placed on remand.
Remember, you should never sign anything you cannot read. If you find yourself under
pressure to sign, ask to speak to the British Embassy.
You will usually remain in the police anti narcotics cell for at least 4 days. Under Ecuadorean
law you should be taken straight to the remand prison once the judge has submitted a
detention order. In reality you can be held in police cells for a longer period as this depends
on space availability in the remand prison (called the CDP: Centro de Detención Provisional).
3
A “state of emergency” was declared on 5 September 2011 due to the huge number of delayed judicial cases and
inefficiency.
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In both places, you will share a cell with possibly several people. You may have access to
your belongings, but this depends on whether the police consider them as evidence. If
considered as evidence you will not be allowed to keep your possessions. In principle, all
seized belongings will be listed in the arrest report. Your passport and other identification will
be taken away. These can be difficult to retrieve afterwards, although we will try and get
them back, since your passport is officially property of the British Government.
In some instances you will not give a statement until you are moved from the police station. It
all very much depends on the availability of judges, lawyers and interpreters, and the speed
at which the police investigate your case. According to Ecuadorean law, a detainee cannot
be interrogated without having the assistance of a private or public lawyer (and a translator
for foreign detainees). The police will arrange a public hearing before the judge and
prosecutor within 24 hours of your detention.
MEN
The men‟s CDP is located in the north of Quito (“El Inca” area). All male prisoners pass
through this unit and it can be overcrowded. You could spend anywhere between 1-3 weeks
in the CDP depending on whether there is space available in the main prison.
Under the 2009 prison system reform, now remand and sentenced prisoners are segregated.
Those male prisoners on remand will then be transferred to the new regional prison in
Cotopaxi (Latacunga), located in the south of Ecuador.
There are basic clothes washing and cooking facilities. There is a public phone, but there are
usually long queues and calls are not free. It is not possible to receive calls in the CDP but in
principle visitors are permitted once a week.
WOMEN
Given that the former remand prison was closed, women detainees are transferred straight to
the Latacunga regional prison, in the south of Ecuador.
Guayaquil
CDP - GUAYAQUIL MEN / WOMEN
All prisoners pass through this unit and it can be heavily overcrowded. Very basic clothes
washing facilities are available.
MEN
The former “Penitenciaria del Litoral” was the main male prison until 2012, when new wings
were built under a pilot project and prisoners were gradually moved since 2012. However, on
2 December 2013, the brand new “Regional Guayaquil male prison” (Centro Penitenciario
Zonal 8 Guayas) was officially inaugurated, and 3600 detainees were transferred from the
old prison. This prison segregates prisoners into the high, medium and low security wings.
The new construction projects have been led by the Ministries of Justice and Interior. A new
prison management system is being applied, including a new visiting system, which involves
a previous registration system by intended family members and/or friends, who will be given
a certain date and time. The other main changes are related to money and food access.
Prisoners are no longer allowed to carry cash. Funds will be deposited at the “economato”
(prison shop).
Cotapaxi
Located in Latacunga, in the Cotopaxi province in the south of Ecuador, at about 1.5 hours
drive from Quito. This new regional prison accommodates all those detainees (men and
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women) who were serving their sentences in Quito and other provinces located in the northcentre Andean area. On 30 April 2014, all remaining prisoners from the main male prison in
Quito were transferred here. This new prisons has 3 pavilions, and each one is composed by
6 wings. Its maximum capacity is for 4,800 inmates, and it will be managed under the new
prison regime, which means more security regulations and restrictions in place.
Outside the main cities - you will usually be held in a local police station and moved to the
nearest large prison once evidence has been gathered, charges pressed and a statement
taken.
Azuay
Located in Cuenca, in the Azuay province in the south of Ecuador, at about 7 hours drive
from Quito or 45 minutes flight. This new regional prison was opened on 18 November 2014,
and will accommodate all those detainees (men and women) currently serving their
sentences in Cuenca and other provinces located in the south-centre Andean area and
Amazon region. This prison will have capacity for 2,740 inmates and it will be also managed
under the new prison model.
For how long can I be remanded in custody?
According to the law, the remand period, in which the state prosecutor leads the investigation
of your case (“instrucción fiscal”), should not exceed 90 days. After the 6-day preliminary
investigation phase, the prosecutor has a maximum of 6 days to reach a judgement.
However, the state prosecutor can request an extension of a maximum of 6 days to complete
the investigation. In the event of evidence arising to indicate that other people are involved in
the case, an extension of 30 more days can be granted.
During the preliminary investigation phase, you can submit some certificates from the UK,
stating your good behaviour through no police records and employment certificate, if
applicable. These certificates can be taken as “atenuantes” which means favouring for a
lower sentence. All certificates must be legalised back in the UK and translated into Spanish
to enable legal validity in Ecuador4.
Time served on remand will be counted as part of your sentence. Except from the bran new
regional prisons, you will be able to wear your own clothes and will not be expected to work,
but you can take part of some of the prison activities/workshops. You can receive visitors.
What happens when I am charged?
You and your lawyer will be notified immediately once the prosecutor has made their
judgement. According to the law, a preliminary hearing before a Judge should take place
within 10 days of the judgement. At this hearing the prosecutor defends his/her judgement.
At this point, all parties can also present more evidence. Immediately after the hearing, the
judge should announce his decision. A maximum delay of 72 hours is permitted before the
Judge announces his verdict. In practice, this does not always happen (it is often much
longer). After the above initial phase, the next stage of the trial begins before the court
(tribunal).
Until September 2006, you may have waited months for a first court hearing and could have
waited for more than a year until you were sentenced5. From 23 October 2006, the
“temporary detention” law6 was brought back, in which any prisoner not sentenced within a
year is entitled to be released but would still be under investigation until his/her case is
4
Ensure that your lawyer includes the good behaviour and other documents also in the Tribunal court hearing file.
Through the former “indefinite detention” ruling (“detención en firme”) which was then found unconstitutional.
6
“Caducidad de la prisión preventiva” (under Article 24.8). Release is only possible if a prisoner and/or lawyer has not
delayed his/her judicial case on purpose (for instance, by not attending the court hearing).
5
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completed. In principle, foreign inmates are released by restriction order and cannot leave
the country until the trial is over. Therefore, the Immigration authorities will be notified.
What provision is there for bail?
There is no provision for bail for foreigners.
What kind of legal assistance is available?
Consular staff cannot give legal advice, but they can provide you with a list of lawyers. You
can hire a lawyer for yourself at any time after your arrest; a list of lawyers for Quito and
Guayaquil is included in this information pack. Normally, if you hire a private lawyer she/he
will ask for a cash advance on his/her estimated legal fees before she/he will take your case
on. The British Embassy cannot pay legal fees or guarantee to a lawyer that you will pay
them.
If you cannot afford a private lawyer you can apply at any time for a public defendant. The
Court must appoint a Legal Aid/Pro Bono Lawyer (Public Defendant/Defensor Público) if you
do not have funds to hire a private lawyer and you are charged with a felony. Pubic
Defendants are free of charge but they rarely speak English and their ability varies. However,
they are providing an efficient service and the number of defendants have been further
increased7. They usually visit most prisons on a weekly basis, in case prisoners need their
services. At the regional prisons they have implemented a small office for Public Defendant
lawyers (“Defensoría Pública” unit).
As in any country, some lawyers are better than others (paying a large fee does not
guarantee that you will get a good lawyer). Once a lawyer is identified, ensure to get his/her
full name and a business card. If you do decide to pay for a lawyer, it is wise to agree a flat
fee for the whole case before they begin work or you may find yourself facing “extra
expenses”. Make sure also to get a receipt of any payment and a commitment to keep you
informed about the stage of your case, by providing you with copies of the judicial process.
Advice from ex-prisoners is to talk to other prisoners when appointing a lawyer, as they often
know which lawyers to avoid and what hidden costs there might be.
What happens at the trial?
There is no jury system in Ecuador. Trials are heard by the judge, the court (usually made up
of three legal representatives), the secretary of the tribunal (court), the prosecutor, the
lawyer, the accused, and the translator/interpreter. It is compulsory that all the above are
present at the court hearing, otherwise it will be delayed.
All documents related to a case and further evidence must be submitted to the president of
the court. The trial will be heard in Spanish. The Court is responsible for arranging the
appointment of an interpreter. Consular staff cannot act as interpreters.
Sentences
A new Integral Criminal Code reform8 was approved by the National Assembly at the end of
December 2013, but only came into effect in August 2014.
After the court hearing, a sentence is given by the secretary of the court. For all drugs
trafficking and possession offences, a sentence must be reviewed (called the “consulta” 9) by
7
At the beginning of 2008 the new government allocated more pro bono lawyers (public defendants) to help speed up pending
legal cases with the aim of reducing prison overcrowding.
8
Código Integral Penal – COIP.
9
The Provincial Court of Justice could either confirm, reduce or increase a preliminary sentence passed by the Tribunal.
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the Provincial Court of Justice. This is still a slow phase which could take at least 6-9
months, and after this your sentence may be increased or decreased, depending on the final
decision made in the „consulta‟. You may then appeal any decision, with the help of your
lawyer or public defendant. Unfortunately the new criminal code reform did not discontinue
this step which has been causing serious delays to all drug offence cases.
In certain circumstances, a drugs crime may be eligible for the „proceso abreviado‟
(abbreviated process) meaning the „consulta‟ period is skipped and you receive your final
sentence in the first court hearing. This usually applies to drugs crimes involving smaller
quantities of drugs, when there are not other people involved, and you are caught committing
a „delito flagrante‟ (flagrant crime) meaning you are caught with the drugs in your possession.
However, even if your case seems to meet these circumstances, there is not guarantee you
will be sentenced under the „proceso abreviado‟ and you may still have to go through the
„consulta‟ process.
A maximum of 5 grams of cocaine is allowed for personal consumption. Anything over this
amount is considered an offence and therefore can attract charges:
- A new Law on Narcotics Control, run by CONSEP10, is linked to a new drugs offence
sentence table, published in August 2014, which provides consistent charges11.
The above reform is part of the new criminal integral code (Código Orgánico Integral Penal –
known as COIP), which came into effect on 10 August 2014.
New charges table:
2 to 6 months for small-scale drug possession/trafficking;
1 to 3 years for medium-scale;
5 to 7 years for high-scale;
10 to 13 years for very high-scale drug possession/trafficking
How can appeals be made?
The accused has the right to appeal their sentence to the Provincial Court of Justice through
their lawyers and together with the “consulta” process. However, the appeal process is very
slow and can lead to delays in finalising a sentence.
10
CONSEP – Consejo Nacional de Control de Sustancias Estupefacientes y Psicotrópicas (National Council for the control of
narcotics substances).
11
Artículo 220 COIP – Categorización para el tráfico ilícito de drogas (drug trafficking classification table – based on the type of
traffic and offence and the type of drug (heroine; cocaine; cocaine paste; marihuana; MDA; extasis, etc)
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There are further “appeals” and “casacion” and finally “revision” (revision), the last two before
the National Court of Justice which can be just as slow.
In spite of the fact that the new criminal code (COIP) is not retroactive, prisoners already
sentenced may have the chance to ask for a “recurso de revision” (appeal for review)
aiming to have their sentences reduced in accordance to the new regulations, given that
there is a “most favourable” article in place12. This article states that „when two laws are in
conflict and imply different sanctions for the same crime, the most favourable sanction will be
applied‟. Therefore if you were sentenced under the old law before the introduction of the
COIP, your sentence may be reduced in line with the new COIP regulations, if they are more
favourable to you.
Under the new criminal code, all sentences will be revised by the “Juzgados de Garantías
Penitenciarios” from the location where prisoners are serving their sentences. Following a
hearing, the judge will apply the “principio de favorabilidad” which aims to reduce the original
sentence. The “Defensoría Pública” (public defendants unit) have been providing assistance
on this process, by gathering all required documents in conjunction with the Embassy´s
consular section, aiming to speed up this procedure.
What provision is there for reduction of sentence (remission) e.g. for good behaviour?
A remission scheme, based on prisoner good behaviour and participation in the prison
activities and in educational programmes, was approved by the Constituent Assembly on 24
July 2008. This has allowed prisoners to reduce their sentences by up to 50%. This reduction
scheme is not a straightforward benefit as prisoners have to earn it through “merits”13.
Within the regulations, a prisoner needs to have a final and enforceable sentence and
enough good behaviour and activity marks, which will be evaluated by the education and
diagnosis departments of the prison. If all requirements are fulfilled, including half of the
sentence having been already served, the prison authorities will send the remission scheme
petition file for an assessment and decision process. As of beginning of 2014, the court
judges are in charge of assessing remission petitions.
Foreign prisoners released under this benefit are expected to be deported when unconfined
from prison.
With the new criminal code (as of 10 August 2014) the merit system will be suspended for
remission purposes due to alleged new and more adequate sentences. However, the merit
system will still be applicable for other benefits, such as provisional early release and
conditional freedom.
What provision is there for early release e.g. on parole?
a. Once prisoners have completed two fifths of their sentence they can apply for „prelibertad’ (provisional “early release’) which is very like parole. This is a very
bureaucratic process and it is subject to many conditions:
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Certificate stating that the prisoner has already served 2/5 of their sentence;
Prisoner‟s application to the director of the prison requesting “pre-libertad”;
Certified copy of trial papers;
Certified copy of final and enforceable sentence;
Good behaviour report from the prison director;
Legal (juridico) report
12
Article 20 – COIP – “principio de favorabilidad” - En caso de conflicto entre dos leyes de la misma materia que contemplen
sanciones diferentes para un mismo hecho, se aplicará la menos rigurosa
13
“Sistema de rebajas por méritos”
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Social, medical/ psychological reports;
Educational and other prison activities report
Risk assessment report
Certificate ruling out any intention of escape;
Notarised contract of employment; (which will be previously inspected by a social worker)
Accommodation certificate confirming that the prisoner will remain in Ecuador during the
period of 'pre-libertad'.
“Pre-libertad” must be served in Ecuador: A prisoner can remain outside the prison during
the whole week but is allocated during the weekend in an “early release shelter” known as
“Casa de Confianza”. Regular “behaviour reports” will be submitted.
The prison´s diagnosis and evaluation department is responsible for issuing the required
certificates into an application file. You will have to submit an official petition addressed to the
prison director, to be included into your file. Following an initial assessment process and the
prison director‟s agreement, your file will be sent to the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights
headquarters in Quito to be passed to the relevant court judge in charge of your judicial case.
The judge will make an official decision.
You do not need a private lawyer or a public defendant for applying for this benefit.
Repeat offenders are not entitled to this benefit scheme.
Before April 2007, it was difficult for foreign prisoners to qualify for “pre-libertad” (provisional
early release) given the accommodation and employment requirements. It was hard to
convince a judge that a foreign prisoner would remain in Ecuador while they served the
remainder of their sentence. However, this benefit is currently considered as another way to
alleviate the overcrowding in the prisons. If a “pre-libertad” application is denied, the prisoner
has to wait 6 months to re-apply.
b. Once prisoners have completed three fifths of their sentence they can apply for „libertad
controlada’ (controlled freedom). The first requirement is to have a good conduct
record and the willingness to resettle. This is a much stricter process as prisoners on this
benefit will no longer be requested to spend some days at the “Casa de Confianza”.
The prison director is in charge of the assessment and clearance process of this benefit,
through the diagnosis and evaluation department, in which the District Prosecutor will be
responsible for resolving the petition.
A British prisoner out of prison on “provisional early release” or “controlled freedom” benefits
will not get money from Prisoners Abroad. In addition, consular staff from the British
Embassy will not be able to pass on “prison comforts” (e.g. money that family has sent) and
will no longer be able to visit.
If a British prisoner has one of the above benefits in progress, the UK authorities would not
consider the Prisoners Transfer Agreement (PTA) any further. Prisoners must be serving a
custodial sentence with a minimum of 6 months remaining for PTAs to be considered by the
UK.
What provision is there for clemency or pardon?
Application for amnesty or pardon may be made to the National Assembly. However, those
convicted of crimes such as torture, terrorism, and 'heinous crimes' including aggravated
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homicide, aggravated rape and robbery resulting in death are not eligible for
amnesty/pardon.
It is possible to apply for clemency only on medical grounds and if a prisoner falls terminally
ill whilst in prison in Ecuador. But this is a long process. Firstly the UK Secretary of State for
Foreign Affairs has to support the clemency plea. Then a request for clemency is made by
the British Ambassador to the Ecuadorean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, after which an
application for clemency has to be approved by the Ministry of Justice. Otherwise, terminallyill prisoners may apply directly to the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights, which can be a
much quicker process.
On 3 July 2008, the Constituent Assembly approved a pardon benefit to all prisoners who
are not repeat offenders, caught with a maximum 2 kilos of cocaine (net weight) and who
had already served 10% of their sentence14. The Ministry of Justice and Human Rights
estimates that 6% of the prison population were released under this benefit15. Foreign
prisoners released under this benefit were deported under the Ecuadorean Immigration Law.
Despite some rumours, another pardon benefit is not likely to be granted by the government.
What about any financial penalties?
The Narcotics Control Law, run by CONSEP (National Council for the Control of Narcotics
Substances), states that for drug trafficking, drug possession or transport offences,
imprisonment from 1 to 13 years will be imposed, plus a financial fine of between 60 to 8000
minimum salaries (a “minimum” was calculated in US$4). CONSEP´s budget to fund its drug
control programme is primarily sourced from this fund. An average amount between US$240
(60 salaries) to US$4,000 (1000 salaries), but with an extreme fine of US$32,000 (8,000
salaries). However, there are no set criteria on how the fines are calculated, or any
correlation to the number of years sentenced as it is entirely up to Judge to decide. In
addition, following the application of the new criminal code, the new minimum salary amount
has been increased by $340 which is the actual minimum wage in Ecuador, which means
much higher fine amounts.
In spite of the fact that the new criminal code reform does not state that a fine will be waived
automatically, the waiving of a drug sentence fine could be granted only for repatriation
purposes, through the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights (see, Prisoner Transfer
Agreement pages 24-26).
Is transfer to another prison within Ecuador possible?
Yes, if the Ecuadorean Ministry of Justice and Human Rights (Social Rehabilitation UnderSecretary) and local prison directors authorise the transfer. If you have been convicted you
will be allocated to a prison to serve your sentence, you will not be able to choose.
In principle, transfers to other prisons are only permitted when there are exceptional
compassionate, medical or safety reasons for doing so. If you are interested in a transfer,
please speak to the Embassy who can raise a request in writing, on your behalf, with the
prison authorities. However, it will be up to them to decide whether an official request is
feasible for a transfer.
14
15
This pardon benefit is no longer valid as it was a one-off benefit to alleviate overcrowding in the prisons.
Between 2008-2010, 2179 prisoners were released under this benefit.
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Is transfer to the UK a possibility?
Yes, if all parties agree. Ecuador ratified the Strasbourg Convention under which transfers
are possible to the UK. The convention came into force on 1 November 2005. A prisoner
should submit a written petition for transfer (translated into Spanish). Transfers can only take
place if prisoners have a “final and enforceable sentence”, support from the relevant
authorities in Ecuador and the UK. Please see pages 24-26 for further information on transfer
to the UK.
What are the procedures for release and deportation?
Once the release warrant has been issued by the relevant Criminal Court, the Director of the
Prison submits the order to the “Juez de Contravenciones”, which is responsible for
deportation. In theory, prisoners are not allowed to stay in Ecuador after release. However,
the judge should arrange a hearing in order to authorise or refuse a request for deportation.
At this stage, the prisoner (and/or lawyer) could present a bid to remain in Ecuador, usually
on humanitarian grounds (if family links, especially a child).
Prisoners should have a passport and air ticket before arranging deportation16. If the above
documents are not available, the court will submit a remand detention order until the
detainee gets all required documents to leave the country.
From mid-January 2011 the Immigration Directorate and the Ministry of Justice and Human
Rights authorities hired a local hotel in Quito to accommodate up to 100 foreign detainees at
the government´s cost. The main purpose of this initiative was to improve the conditions of
foreigners waiting for their deportation. The police would provide security measures through
guards at the hostel, and the ministry would pay for accommodation and food.
Following an official resolution of 30 March 2011, the Ministry of Interior´s Direction for
Protection of Rights is now in charge of the “deportation - Hotel Carrion” in the north of Quito
and is also responsible for coordinating and processing all deportation cases (i.e related to
prisoners who have completed to serve a sentence in Ecuador; prisoners who have been
released under the “merits” remission scheme, and/or those foreigners who have overstayed
in Ecuador).
In principle, foreigners waiting for their deportation outside Quito are also being transferred to
this hotel until their deportation process is completed. The process is likely to take around a
month, depending on individual cases. If you have already a valid passport the process may
be quicker. Otherwise you can apply for an emergency passport (ETD) from the British
Embassy, at a cost, to enable to be deported back to the UK.
Prisoners detained after the new criminal code was implemented (10 August 2014), and
receiving a sentence under 5 years, will not be deported at the cost of the Ecuadorean
government. Once the sentence has been served, they will get a release warrant and they
will be responsible for arranging their own return home. In these circumstances prisoners
often need any remaining Prisoners Abroad funds (if applicable) or funds to be sent from
family/friends in order to cover their immediate food and accommodation costs in Ecuador
before they can fly home. If these circumstances apply to you, it would be worthwhile starting
to think about how you will cover the cost of your plane ticket once you are released.
16
The Ecuadorean State did not pay for deportation, as the same person waiting for deportation had to cover the airfare and
other related expenses. However, as of end March 2011 the Direction for Protection of Rights at the Ecuadorean Ministry of
Interior is responsible for processing deportation cases and for covering related costs, including the airfare for police escort if
necessary.
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THE BENEFITS SYSTEM IN ECUADOR
FACTSHEET FOR PRISONERS
The “benefit” system in Ecuador is similar to
parole in the UK. The advantage of being
released on benefits is that you would be
outside of the prison, for at least some of the
time, until you have served the remainder of
your sentence. The benefit system usually
works quite well for Ecuadorean prisoners,
however being released on benefit can be
difficult for foreigners. If you are told that you
can apply for benefit, it is up to you whether
you decide to do so. However, there are some
important issues that you should consider.
What are the problems with being released
on benefit?
Some foreign prisoners have experienced
problems when released on benefit. Before
deciding whether to apply, you should be
aware that, if released on benefit:
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How does the benefit system work?
Prisoners can apply for “benefit” according to
how much of their sentence they have served
(see box below). Foreign prisoners are much
less likely that Ecuadoreans to be released on
benefit, so your application might be refused.
The British Embassy cannot ask the
Ecuadorean authorities to offer you benefit if
you are not entitled to it.
You do not need any private lawyer or a public
defendant to apply for a benefit. Instead, you
will have to approach the prison´s diagnosis
and evaluation department and you will have
to submit a petition to the prison´s director:
Prelibertad (provisional early release):
a prisoner who has served 2/5 of their
sentence (40%) and has a record of good
conduct and who can live outside the prison.
You must comply with basic rules such as
having a job and accommodation in place.
These will be previously inspected by a social
worker.
The assessment and authorisation process is
in charge of the relevant court judge.
Libertad Controlada (controlled freedom):
a prisoner who has served 3/5 of their
sentence (60%) and has a good conduct
record. Some of the requirements are a job
and accommodation arrangements in place.
The assessment and authorisation process is
in charge of the District Prosecutor.
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You may not be able to find a well-paid job
to cover all your basic needs, including
your house/flat rent.
You will not get money from Prisoners
Abroad.
The British government will not be able to
give you financial support.
Consular staff from the British Embassy
will not be able to pass on “prison
comforts” (e.g money that your family has
sent you) free of charge.
Consular staff from the British Embassy
will no longer be able to visit you.
You may not get your passport back from
the Ecuadorean authorities, so you will not
be able to leave the country.
What happens to Prisoner Transfer
Agreement (PTA) in progress?
If a prisoner is out of prison on benefit in
Ecuador and has a PTA in progress, the UK
authorities would not consider the PTA any
further. Prisoners must be serving a custodial
sentence with a minimum of 6 months
remaining for PTAs to be considered in the
UK.
The information contained in this sheet is not meant to be
a definitive statement of the law, nor is to be taken as a
substitute for independent legal advice.
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TRANSFERS TO THE UK
Why should you transfer?
You would be able to serve the rest of your sentence closer to your family and friends. You would also be
in an English speaking environment, and be able to take advantage of the courses available in British
prisons aimed at preparing you for release.
How are transfers arranged?
The UK Government has signed international agreements that allow British prisoners to be transferred
from certain countries to the UK.
STRASBOURG PRISONERS TRANSFER AGREEMENT - PTA
 Strasbourg Convention signed by Ecuadorean President Palacio on 27 June 2005.
 Ratification to the European Council, in Strasbourg, was submitted on 12 July 2005.
 The agreement came into force on 1 November 2005.
 The Supreme Court of Justice asked for another entity to be in charge of the agreement.
 In April 2006, the Technical Juridical Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) was officially
appointed as the new entity in charge of processing transfer petitions.
 In 2009, the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights (Foreign Affairs Unit) was appointed to process
transfer requests.
Local Requirements under the Strasbourg Prisoners Transfer Agreement:
 Prisoner needs to have been sentenced: Judgement must be final and enforceable
 Prisoner's consent for application (in writing and in Spanish)
 Prisoner's Nationality to be certified (either through passport or through a notarised certificate)
 Certificate submitted by the Director of the prison stating how long has the prisoner been detained and
how much more of his sentence remains to be served. Any benefit granted would need also to be
taken into account.
 Further medical, psychological, social, educational and legal certificates issued by the prison.
 With the sentence, a fine is also imposed. This amount needs to be paid to Consep (National Council
for the Control of Narcotics Substances). Original fine payment receipt needs to be attached to other
documents. Unless the fine is paid, a prisoner cannot be eligible to the transfer agreement. The fine
can only be waived f you are applying for repatriation.
 The offence for which prisoner was convicted must also be a criminal offence in the UK.
 To have at least six months of your sentence left to serve at time of application for transfer. However,
in exceptional cases the Contracting States may agree to a transfer even though the time to be
served is less than the specified.
 To bear in mind that if your sentence has been appealed and the appeal is still in process, you cannot
yet apply for transfer. The sentence has to be completely confirmed, which means no outstanding
fines or other non-custodial penalties, criminal proceedings and/or appeal procedures.
 All documents to be submitted to the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights.
 The Ministry of Justice and Human Rights will issue a certified copy of the process, together with their
approval and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs‟ official agreement note.
 Once the petition is authorised, an official notification will be submitted to the Embassy, to the Director
of the prison and to Interpol‟s Office.
 The Ecuadorean Interpol Police will escort the prisoner to the international airport for an official
handover to the British police.
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Information from Britain
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HMPS (Her Majesty‟s Prison Service) to arrange the escort and collection of prisoners.
6 HMPS staff that act as escorts. 2 escorts are required per prisoner. It is not possible for more than
one prisoner to be transferred at a time.
HMPS make the arrangements and cover the cost of flights. However, the prisoner is required to sign
a UTR (undertaking to repay). Your passport will be retained until repayment is made.
Location following repatriation
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All men will be taken to Wandsworth Prison, in London. They will remain there for a period of
assessment and will then be allocated to a suitable prison in which to serve the remainder of their
sentence. Prisoners will be allocated a security category and may progress through the system to
open condition. However, not every prisoner will be suitable for open condition.
All women to be transferred to Holloway Prison, in London, before onward allocation.
How long will you serve on your return?
The British authorities will continue to enforce the sentence imposed on you by the foreign court. The
British authorities cannot increase the sentence that has been imposed on you. However, the release
arrangements of the country where you are imprisoned will cease to apply once you have been
transferred. British release arrangements will apply instead. Each country has its own release
arrangements; as it stands in Ecuador your release date in the UK would normally be before your release
in Ecuador. You can be provided with detailed information about the calculation of your release dates in
the UK before you are required to give your consent to transfer. You should ensure that you fully
understand the consequences of your transfer before you give your consent. If you are unsure you should
ask for clarification.
Can you appeal your conviction and sentence through the British Courts?
No. This remains a matter for the courts in Ecuador, where you were sentenced. The British courts have
no jurisdiction to review either your conviction or your sentence.
As a British Citizen, can the UK authorities refuse your transfer request?
The British authorities will normally approve the request of British citizens. However, the UK authorities
reserve the right to refuse your request.
Will you be liable to prosecution for other offences if you return?
You cannot be prosecuted in the UK for the offence for which you are sentenced. You will, however, be
liable to detention or prosecution in connection with any other alleged offence committed in the UK.
Will you have a criminal record in the UK even though your offence was committed in another
country?
Whether you return to the UK as a serving prisoner, or at the end of your sentence, you will have a
criminal record. The law requires that in certain circumstances, such as in a job application, you must
disclose your previous criminal convictions. This includes those imposed abroad and/or in the UK. Failure
to give full disclosure of your criminal convictions when required by law to do so is a criminal offence.
You should be aware that if you are arrested for certain serious offences, such as child sex abuse or
drugs crimes, consular staff must tell other relevant UK authorities, including the National Crime Agency NCA.
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Repatriation of Prisoners to England and Wales
Prisoner expresses an interest
UK Authorities
Local Prison Authorities
British Embassy
Ministry of Justice and
Human Rights in the
sentencing state for
consideration
Case referred to UK
HM Prison Serive
Scottish Prison Service
Northern Ireland Prison Service
Passport Agency
Police
Home Office
Relevant Prison Service
determines request
Consent sent back to sentencing state for
final approval including sentence
If the sentencing state consents, prisoner´s consent obtained.
Consent forwarded to UK with request to collect
Escort from HMP Wandsworth returns prisoner to the UK
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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PRISONERS ABROAD
Since 1978 the charity Prisoners Abroad has offered practical support and advice to British citizens
imprisoned overseas. It is the only UK charity providing this service and it is available to all, whether
guilty or innocent, convicted or on remand. Prisoners Abroad is concerned with your health and welfare,
both during your imprisonment and also on your return to the UK, through their resettlement service (if
you have registered whilst in prison). They can also provide support and advice to your family during your
imprisonment. In order to access any services, prisoners must first register with Prisoners Abroad by
signing and returning their authorisation form.
Once you seek help from Prisoners Abroad, the Prisoner & Family Support Service will be your point of
contact for advice and information. The type of assistance they can offer will vary from country to country,
but generally they can provide you with information, in English, on:









your rights as a prisoner and issues that may affect you such as health or transfer to the UK
obtaining magazines, newspapers, books and the regular Prisoners Abroad newsletter
writing to a pen pal
learning the language of your country of imprisonment
translation of documents
grants for food if you are in a developing country and don‟t have funds from other sources
grants for essential medicines and toiletries if you don‟t have funds from other sources
preparing for release
help for your loved ones, including information, family support groups and assistance with the cost
of visiting
Prisoners Abroad
89 – 93 Fonthill Road
London N4 3JH
UK
Telephone: 00 44 (0)20 7561 6820 or, for your relatives in the UK, Freephone 0808 172 0098
(Mondays to Fridays 9.30 am to 4.30 pm, UK time)
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.prisonersabroad.org.uk
For further details, refers to attachments
(3 pages – general leaflet, authorisation form, family contact)
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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ANNEXES
Annex 1: LIST OF ENGLISH SPEAKING LAWYERS IN ECUADOR
Quito
Guayaquil
Annex 2: LIST OF PRIVATE TRANSLATORS/INTERPRETERS IN ECUADOR
Quito
Guayaquil
Annex 3: FCO LEAFLETS
In prison abroad
Transfers home for prisoners abroad
Annex 4: PRISONERS ABROAD LEAFLET AND FORMS
Annex 5: FAIR TRIALS INTERNATIONAL QUESTIONNAIRE AND LEAFLETS
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS
A
Abrogation
Access to file (by Lawyer)
Accomplice
Accused (with charges)
Acquitted
Adjudication
Administration of justice
Amnesty
Anti Narcotics Police Station
Appeal
Appeal - trial court decision is appealed
directly
to the National Court, by
“jumping” over the intermediate court of
appeals.
Appeal for error
Appeal or complaint
Application
Application forms (prison)
Army
Assessment of evidence
Attorney General´s Office
B
Blood test
Board of prison governors
C
Cell
Charge
Chief Prosecutor
Civil party in criminal trial
Clemency / pardon
Complaints system
Completed file
Compulsory prosecution
Consent
Convicted
Conviction
Corporal
Country ban (order issued which prohibits a
person who has been deported or expelled
from returning)
Court appearance
Court file reference
Courthouse
Criminal code
Criminal code procedure
Criminal Court
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Derogación
Acceso al expediente
Cómplice
Imputado
Absuelto
Fallo / sentencia
Administración de Justicia
Amnistía
Jefatura de Antinarcóticos
Apelación
Casación
Apelar por error
Apelación o queja
Aplicación
Formulario de aplicación
Ejército
Evaluación de pruebas y evidencias (pruebas
materiales, testimoniales y documentales)
Fiscalía General del Estado
Exámen de sangre
Comité
Celda
Acusación / alegato
Fiscal General
Parte civil en juicio penal
Indulto
Sistema de denuncias / demandas
Expediente completo
Enjuiciamiento obligatorio
Consentimiento
Condenado / sentenciado
Condena / sentencia
Cabo / corporal
Prohibición de regresar al país
(orden de arraigo)
Comparecencia ante el tribunal
Referencia del expediente del juicio
Tribunal / Juzgado
Código de Procedimiento Penal
Código de Ejecución de penas y rehabilitación
social
Tribunal de Garantías Penales
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Criminal prosecution
Criminal record
Custody hearing
Custody order
D
Danger of absconding
Danger of interfering with the course of
justice
Danger of repeated criminal offences
Deportation
Deportation order
Dismiss charges
Duty of obedience
E
Early release benefit
Ecuadorean Prison Service
Escort
Expert Witness
Expulsion
Extradition
F
Federal Police
Fever
File
Final public trial
Food poisoning
G
Greater Criminal Court
Guarding (a prison)
Guilty
H
Hand cuffed
Hearing (first)
High Court
Higher Regional Court
Human rights
Hunger strike
I
Imprisoned
Imprisonment
Imprisonment after conviction
Enjuiciamiento penal
Record policial
Audiencia preliminar
Orden de prisión preventiva
Peligro de fugarse
Peligro de interferir con el procedimiento de
justicia / procedimiento legal
Riesgo de reincidencia
Deportación
Orden de deportación
Descargar / descartar cargos o acusación
Deber de obediencia
Pre-libertad
DNRS (Dirección Nacional de Rehabilitación
Social)
Escoltar / escolta
Testigo
Expulsión
Extradición
Policía Nacional
Fiebre
Expediente
Juicio (público)
Intoxicación estomacal
Corte Nacional de Justicia
Custodia en la prisión
Culpable
Esposado
Primera audiencia
Corte Provincial de Justicia
Corte Provincial de Justicia (superior)
Derechos humanos
Huelga de hambre
Indictment
Insubordination to officer
Interpreter
Investigation
Detenido / encarcelado / recluído
Detención / encarcelamiento / reclusión
Encarcelamiento después de ser sentenciado /
condenado
Denuncia / acusación / proceso
Desobediencia a la autoridad / insubordinación
Intérprete
Investigación / Indagación
J
Jeopardise
Judge
Judgement
Poner en peligro
Juez
Sentencia / juzgamiento / dictámen
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Judgement Final and enforceable
Judicial Police
Jurisdiction (Criminal) Entities
Juvenile prison
L
Lawyer
Lawyers´charges
Lay Judges
Lay Judges Court
Legal Aid / Pro Bono Lawyer
Legal Clerk
Legal remedy
Local prison rules
Local State Court
M
Major offence
Malnutrition
Marital Visit
Minimal (guilt)
Ministry of Justice (and Human Rights)
Minor offence
Misdemeanour
Mistreatment/ Torture
Money earned in prison
N
Notary
O
Officer of the Court
Opposition
Out-of-court settlement
P
Parole (conditional release)
Pardon
Pay off debts
Penal order
Penal proceeding
Penitentiary system
Permanent (indefinite) detention
Permit, entitlement
Personal money in prison
Physical examination
Plaintiff
Police Headquarters
Police Officer
Power of Attorney
Preliminary detention
Presiding Judge
Presumption of innocence
Not protectively marked
Sentencia en firme y ejecutoriada
Policía Judicial
Órganos de la Jurisdicción Penal:
Corte Nacional de Justicia (CNJ)/ Salas
Especializadas de lo Penal de la CNJ / Corte
Provincial de Justicia / Jueces de Garantías
Penales / Tribunal de Garantías Penales.
Cárcel de menores
Abogado
Honorarios del abogado
Disponer los jueces
Disponer los jueces del tribunal
Defensor Público
Empleado jurídico / legal
Recurso legal
Reglas carcelarias
Tribunal Penal
Delito mayor
Desnutrición
Visita conyugal
Culpabilidad mínima
Ministerio de Justicia (y Derechos Humanos)
Delito mínimo
Falta / mala conducta
Maltrato / tortura
Dinero ganado en prisión
Notaría
Funcionario de la Corte/Juzgado
Oposición
Resolución
Libertad condicional
Indulto
Pagar deudas
Reglamento penal
Trámite/procedimiento penal
Sistema penitenciario / carcelario
Detención en firme
Permiso / calificado / acreditado
Dinero personal
Exámen físico
Demandante
Intendencia General de Policía
Oficial de Policía
Poder legal
Aprehensión
Juez dirigente
Se presume inocente
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Preventive detention
Prison
Prison administration
Prison Assessment Unit
Prison court
Prison Director
Prison house rules
Prison rules regarding supervised visit
Prisión preventiva
Prisión / cárcel / centro carcelario
Administración carcelaria
Departamento de Diagnóstico y Evaluación
Comitiva de la prisión
Director de la prisión / centro de rehabilitación
social
Reglamento interno de la prisión
Reglas de la prisión referente a las visitas
supervisadas
Guía/guardia penitenciario / guardia carcelario
Jefe de guías
Presos / internos (inmates)
Enjuiciamiento privado
Denuncia procesal
Proceso/tramite legal
Pruebas de evidencia
Enjuiciamiento/ procesamiento
Fiscal
Suministro
Fiscalía
Celda de castigo (calabozo)
Prison Guard
Prison Warden
Prisoners
Private prosecution
Procedural complaint
Proceedings
Proof of evidence
Prosecution
Prosecutor (Public)
Provision
Public Prosecutor‟s Office
Punishment cell
R
Raids
Requisas
Register (in State)
Registro / matrícula
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitación
Release
Salir en libertad
Release order
Boleta de libertad / boleta de excarcelación
Remand (sending a person accused of an alleged
Detención provisional
offence into custody to await trial)
Remand prison
CDP (centro de detención provisional)
Remedy of appeal
Recurso de apelación
Remission
Rebaja de pena (sistema de rebaja por “méritos”)
Repatriation
Repatriación / traslado
Representative of the Local Authority
Representante de la autoridad local
Riot
Motín / disturbio / alboroto
Riot squad
Grupo de amotinamiento
Roll call
Tomar lista (in the morning and at night)
S
Security
Seguridad
Small Police Station
Jefatura de policía
Social Worker
Trabajador(a) Social
State officials including prison Warders
Trabajadores públicos, incluyendo guardias /
guías penitenciarios
Statute of Judicial Organisation
Estatuto / Decreto / Reglamento de una
organización judicial / legal
Stomach bugs
Infección estomacal
Strike
Huelga / paro
Sufficient suspicion
Suficientes
pruebas
(fundamentos
de
imputación)
Supreme Court of Justice
Corte Nacional de Justicia
Surety (money required for a remand Fianza
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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prisoner to be released on bail)
Suspended sentence
T
Temporary detention
The accused
To buy
To change money
To deport
To file an application
Transfer Agreement
(Strasbourg Convention)
Sentencia suspendida
Detención temporal
El Acusado
Comprar
Cambiar dinero
Deportar
Archivar el expendiente
“Convenio
de
Traslado
de
Personas
Condenadas”
- Convención de Estrasburgo
(repatriación)
Traslado a otra prisión
Alta traición
Transfer to another prison
Treason
V
Valid or legal
Visit permit
W
Warden
Wing
Válido o legal
Permiso para visita
Guardia (guía)
Pabellón
Spanish Alphabet
Sounds Like
A,a
B,b
C,c
D,d
E,e
F,f
G,g
H,h
I, I
J, j
K,k
L,l
M,m
N, n
O,o
P, p
Q,q
R, r
S, s
T, t
U,u
V,v
W,Y
X,x
Z,z
Not protectively marked
A
Be
Ce
De
E
Efe
Ge
Ache
I
Jota
Ka
Ele
Eme
Ene
O
Pe
Qu
Ere
Ese
Te
U
Ve
Doble Ve, Ye
Equis
Zeta
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Useful words
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
1000
Food
Apple
Banana
Beans
Biscuits
Bread
Cake
Chicken
Coffee
Drink
Eat
Egg
Fruit
Hungry
Not protectively marked
Uno
Dos
Tres
Cuatro
Cinco
Seis
Siete
Ocho
Nueve
Diez
Once
Doce
Trece
Catorce
Quince
Dieciseis
Diecisiete
Dieciocho
Diecinueve
Veinte
Treinta
Cuarenta
Cincuenta
Sesenta
Setenta
Ochenta
Noventa
Cien
Mil
Comida
Manzana
Banana
Fréjol
Galletas
Pan
Pastel
Pollo
Café
Beber- Tomar
Comer
Huevo
Fruta
Ambriento
Plátano/ Guineo
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Juice
Meat
Milk
Omlette
Pancake
Rice
Sausage
Sugar
Sweet
Vegetables
Water
Jugo
Carne
Leche
Revuelto
Pancake
Arroz
Salchicha
Azúcar
Dulce/ caramelo
Vegetales
Agua
Cutlery
Cup
Fork
Knife
Plate
Spoon
Good Morning
Good Afternoon
Good Night
Cubiertos
Taza
Tenedor
Cuchillo
Plato
Cuchara
Buenos días
Buenas tardes
Buenas noches
Day
Week
Month
Monthy
Year
Día
Semana
Mes
Mensual
Año
Today
Tomorrow
Tonight
Hoy
Mañana
Esta noche
Days of the Week
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Días de la Semana
Domingo
Lunes
Martes
Miércoles
Jueves
Viernes
Sábado
Seasons
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Estaciones
Primavera
Verano
Otoño
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Winter
Months
January
Febrero
Marzo
Abril
Mayo
Junio
Julio
Agosto
Septiembre
Octubre
Noviembre
Diciembre
Invierno
Meses
Enero
Febrero
Marzo
Abril
Mayo
Junio
Julio
Agosto
Septiembre
Octubre
Noviembre
Diciembre
Baby
Boy
Child
Father
Girl
Husband
Man
Money
Mother
Wife
Woman
Bebé
Niño
Muchacho
Papá
Niña
Esposo
Hombre
Dinero
Mamá
Esposa
Mujer
He
I
Me
My
Yours
Her
His
Their
Them
You
Yours
El
Yo
Yo
Mio
Tuyo, vuestro
De ella
De él
De ellos
Ellos
Tú
Tuyo , vuestro
Borrow
Close
Closed
Come
Debt
Door
Pedir prestado
Cerrar
Cerrado
Venir
Deuda
Puerta
Not protectively marked
Chico
Plata
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Give
Here
Indoors
Inside
Open
Outside
Run
Stand
Stay
Stop
Turn
Walk
Dar
Aqui
Dentro de Casa
Dentro
Abrir
Afuera, exterior
Correr
Posición, puesto
Quedarse
Detenerse
Vuelta
Caminar
Parts of the body
Head
Hair
Eye
Eyes
Eyeball
Eyebrow
Eyelash
Eyelid
Nose
Nostril
Ear
Hearing
Mouth
Partes del cuerpo
Cabeza
Cabello
Ojo
Ojos
Globo Ocular
Ceja
Pestaña
Párpado
Nariz
Fosa nasal
Oido
Escuchando
Boca
First
Second
Third
Fourth
Fifth
Sixth
Seventh
Eight
Ninth
Tenth
Primero
Segundo
Tercero
Cuarto
Quinto
Sexto
Séptimo
Octavo
Noveno
Décimo
Half
In half
Mitad
En la mitad
After
Before
Later
Después
Antes
Luego
Not protectively marked
Pare
Pelo
Oreja
Medio
Más tarde
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Now
Climate/Weather
Climate
Cold
Heat
Hot
Rain
Shade
Sun
Sunshine
Weather
Wind
Ahora
Clima
Clima
Frio
Calor
Caliente
Lluvia
Sombra
Sol
Luz solar
Tiempo
Viento
Briefs
Clothes
Pullover
Shirt
Shorts
Socks
Trousers
"T" Shirt
Ropa interior
Ropa
Chompa
Camisa
Bermuda
Medias
Pantalones
Camiseta
Sandals
Shoe
Trainers
Sandalias
Zapato
Zapatillas
Ashtray
Book
Cigarettes
Dry
Lighter
Pen
Pencil
Scissors
Soap
Soap powder
Wash
Wash hand
Washing
Wet
Cenicero
Libro
Cigarrillos
Secar
Claro
Esfero
Lápiz
Tijeras
Jabón
Jabón en polvo
Lavar
Lavabo
Lavado
Húmedo
Bucket
Scrubbing Brush
Balde
Escoba de Fregar
Not protectively marked
Suéter
Shorts
Calcetines
Chanclas / chancletas
Tennis / Zapatos
deportivos / Zapatos
de caucho
Cigarros /Tabacos
Bien iluminado
Lava manos
Lavando
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Shower
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Ducha
Cepillo de dientes
Pasta dental
Towel
Toalla
Dream
Rest
Sleep
Sleepy
Wake
Sueño
Descanso
Dormir
Cansado
Despertarse
Bed
Bed Sheet
Blanket
Mattress
Pillow
Cama
Sábana
Cobija
Colchón
Almohada
Not protectively marked
Pasta de dientes /
Dentífrico
Somnoliento
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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PRISONERS ABROAD
KEY PHRASES - ENGLISH INTO SPANISH
89 – 93 Fonthill Road
Finsbury Park London N4 3JH
Tel 020 7561 6820 Fax 020 7561 6821
[email protected]
www.prisonersabroad.org.uk
Charity Number 1093710
The phrases below are intended to help anyone with little or no knowledge of the Spanish language
communicate at a basic level within the prison environment. Most prisons do run Spanish language lessons
for foreign national prisoners and Prisoners Abroad has a limited supply of Spanish/English dictionaries which
we may be able to send you to help with this.
Some Basics
In Spanish all nouns have a gender, either masculine or feminine (for example, the word for 'house' (casa) is a
feminine noun so 'a house'/'the house' is translated as 'una casa'/'la casa'. The word for 'book' (libro) is a masculine
noun so 'a book'/'the book' is translated as 'un libro'/'el libro').
The gender of the word will affect adjectives which refer to that word. For example, if you want to say 'the red house'
you would say 'la casa roja'. If you wanted to say 'a red book' you would say 'un libro rojo'.
Where appropriate, the gender of each form of the word has been given below: masculine forms of the word are
denoted by '(m)', feminine by '(f)'. The plural form of the word (i.e when there is more than one of the object
concerned) is denoted by 'pl'. So, 'these houses' would appear as 'estas casas (fpl)' and 'those books' would appear
as 'esos libros (mpl)'.
Accents may appear above certain vowels, helping pronunciation by indicating where the stress should be placed in
that particular word (e.g. prisión, miércoles, teléfono). In the absence of accents, words ending in either a vowel or
…n / …s will have stress placed on the penultimate syllable (e.g. nosotros, transferido, urgente). If the word ends
in a consonant other than …n / …s, the last syllable is stressed (e.g. necesitar, enfermedad, espanol)
Basics
My name is…
Me llamo….
Verbs
I am… (e.g. I am English)
Soy…
To have
tener
The
El/La/Los/Las
I have
yo tengo
A
Un/Una/Unos/Unas
you (singular) have
tú tienes
It
Lo/la/le
he/she has
él/ella tiene
I/We/Me
Yo/Nosotros/me
we have
nosotros/as tenemos
What/Which
Qué/Cuál
you (plural) have
vosotros/as teneis
Left
Izquierda
they have
ellos/as tienen
Right
Derecha
Here
Aquí
There
Ahí
What day does the…
¿Qué día…?
I cannot…
No puedo…
Not protectively marked
(In Spanish, there are two verbs which translate as „to
be‟: „ser‟ and „estar‟. „Ser‟ is meant to convey something
permanent (e.g. „I am English‟, „I am a man‟), and „estar‟
is meant to convey something more temporary like a
mood or emotion (e.g. „I am ill‟, or „I am happy‟).
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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To use/I use
Usar/yo uso
To be
ser
To speak/I speak
Hablar/yo hablo
I am
yo soy
To write/I write
Escribir/yo escribo
you (singular) are
tú eres
To go/I go
Ir/yo voy
he/she is
él/ella es
To be able to
Poder/yo puedo
we are
nosotros/as somos
To give
Dar/yo doy
you (plural) are
vosotros/as sois
they are
ellos/as son
To be
estar
I am
estoy
you (singular) are
tú estás
he/she is
él/ella está
we are
nosotros/as estamos
you (plural) are
vosotros/as estais
they are
ellos/as están
To want/I want
Querer/yo quiero
To need/I need
Necesitar/yo necesito
To feel/I feel
Sentir/yo siento
To have to/I have to
Tener que/yo tengo que
To see/I see
Ver/yo veo
Prepositions
After
Después
Above
Encima
Before
Antes
Over
por encima de
During
Durante
Beside/next to/by
al lado de
Since
Desde
Near to
cerca de
Until
Hasta
Through
a través
In/inside
en/dentro
Towards
hacia
Outside
Fuera
Behind
detrás
At
en
Between
entre
From
De/desde
Opposite
en frente
On
en/encima
With
con
Under/below/beneath
Debajo
Without
sin
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Basic communication
Hello
Hola
Good afternoon
Buenas tardes
Good evening
Buenas tardes
Good night
Buenas noches
How are you?
¿Cómo estás?
Fine thanks, and you?
Bien gracias, ¿y tú?
Excuse me
Perdone
See you later
Hasta luego
Yes
Sí
No
No
Please
Por favor
Thank you
Gracias
I don‟t know
No sé
Could you repeat that more slowly?
¿Puedes repetir más despacio?
I don‟t understand
No entiendo
I do not speak …… very well
No hablo muy bien ….
I am sorry to bother you but…
Siento molestarte pero….
May I borrow your…
¿Me prestas tu…?
How can I obtain…?
¿Cómo puedo obtener…?
Is there any mail for me?
¿Hay correo para mí?
How much does this cost?
¿Cuánto cuesta esto?
Do you mind if I open the window?
¿Te importa si abro la ventana?
Do you mind if I smoke?
Te importa si fumo?
Could you kindly write that down for me?
¿Podrías escribir eso para mí por favor?
Do you have the correct time?
¿Tienes la hora correcta?
What is your nationality?
¿Cuál es tu nacionalidad?
Useful phrases/vocabulary
The telephone is out of order
I do not have any means to buy…
I would like to order…
This is urgent
May I make an appointment to see…
Can you tell me how long I will be held in police custody before
I get transferred to a prison?
What must I do to get transferred to another prison?
Can you tell me how long my sentence is?
Can you tell me the date my sentence finishes?
I need to see my lawyer
Can I move to Mr…..‟s cell as he speaks English?
Can I have a list of local English-speaking lawyers?
Can Mr….. move into this cell?
Who is dealing with my case?
Does the prison have a list of translators?
Can I get bail?
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I am very cold, can I have an extra blanket please?
When is the shop open?
How much money do I have in my account?
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What day does the doctor come? What time?
El teléfono no funciona
Is there any work that I can do?
No me puedo permitir comprar…
I would like to work in the…
Me gustaría pedir…
Can you show me what I must do?
Esto es urgente
Could I buy a Spanish/English dictionary?
¿Podría fijar una cita con…?
Can you contact the Consul for me?
Necesito ver a mi abogado
I want to make a complaint
¿Me das una lista de abogados que hablen ingles?
Can I have permission for my family to send me….?
¿Quién está a cargo de mi caso?
As I am not allowed visits, could I have a parcel of
clothes sent to the prison?
¿Hay una lista de traductores en la prisión?
Are there any items which they are not permitted to
send me?
¿Puedo pedir la libertad bajo fianza?
¿Me podrías decir cuánto tiempo estaré detenido antes de ser
transferido a una prisión?
¿Qué debo hacer para ser transferido a otra prisión?
I want to send this letter to…
¿Me podrías decir cuánto tiempo durará mi sentencia?
¿Me podrías decir la fecha en que mi sentencia terminará?
Why are my letters taking so long to get to my family?
¿Me puedo cambiar a la celda del Sr…., ya que habla inglés?
¿Puede el Sr… cambiarse a esta celda?
¿Tengo mucho frío, me das otra manta por favor?
¿Cuándo abre la tienda?
¿Cuánto dinero tengo en mi cuenta?
¿Qué día viene el médico? ¿A qué hora?
¿Hay algún trabajo que puedo hacer?
Me gustaría trabajar en el/la….
¿Me puedes enseñar lo qué debo hacer?
¿Podría comprar un diccionario de ingles/espanol?
¿Puedes contactar el cónsul para mí?
Quiero poner una queja
Me gustaría pedir permiso para que mi familia me envíe…
Como no tengo permitido ninguna visita, ¿se me podría enviar
un paquete de ropa a la prisión?
¿Hay algo que no pueden enviarme?
Quiero enviar esta carta a….
¿Por qué mis cartas tardan tanto en llegar a mi familia?
I have not heard from my family and I am worried
about them
How do I arrange a visit for my family?
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Can you confirm that my family has booked a visit for
(a specific date)?
May I have an extended visit as I do not get many and
my family has to travel a long way?
Could I go to the prison school to learn Spanish?
Could you give this letter to Mr… cell no…. so he can
translate it for me?
No sé nada de mi familia y estoy preocupado/a por ellos.
¿Qué tengo que hacer para arreglar una visita de mi familia?
¿Podrías confirmar qué día ha reservado mi familia para
visitarme?
¿Podría pedir una visita más larga ya que no recibo muchas
visitas y mi familia tiene que viajar de lejos?
¿Podría ir a las clases de la prisión para aprender español
¿Podrías darle esta carta al Sr…. celda número … para que la
traduzca para mí?
Time/days/numbers
Today
Hoy
September
Septiembre
Tomorrow
Mañana
October
Octubre
Morning
Mañana
November
Noviembre
Afternoon
Tarde
December
Diciembre
Night
Noche
Spring
Primavera
Next week
La próxima semana
Summer
Verano
Next month
El próximo mes
Autumn
Otoño
Next year
El próximo año
Winter
Invierno
Last week
La semana pasada
Christmas
Navidad
Last month
El mes pasado
Easter
Semana Santa
Last year
El año pasado
New Year
Año Nuevo
Weekend
Fin de semana
National Holiday
Día festivo
Monday
Lunes
One (first)
Uno (primero/a)
Tuesday
Martes
Two (second)
Dos (Segundo/a)
Wednesday
Miércoles
Three (third)
Tres (Tercero/a)
Thursday
Jueves
Four (fourth)
Cuatro (cuarto/a)
Friday
Viernes
Five (fifth)
Cinco (quinto/a)
Saturday
Sábado
Six (sixth)
Seis (sexto/a)
Sunday
Domingo
Seven (seventh)
Siete (séptimo/a)
January
Enero
Eight (eighth)
Ocho (octavo/a)
February
Febrero
Nine (ninth)
Nueve (noveno/a)
March
Marzo
Ten (tenth)
Diez (décimo/a)
April
Abril
Eleven (eleventh)
Once (décimoprimero/a)
May
Mayo
Twelve (twelfth)
Doce (décimosegundo/a)
June
Junio
Thirteen (thirteenth)
Trece (décimotercero/a)
July
Julio
Fourteen (fourteenth)
Catorce (décimocuarto/a)
August
Agosto
Fifteen (fifteenth)
Quince (décimoquinto/a)
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Sixteen (sixteenth)
Dieciseis (décimosexto/a) Fifty (fiftieth)
Cincuenta (quincuagésimo/a)
Seventeen(seventeenth)
Diecisiete (décimoséptimo/a)
Sixty (sixtieth)
Sesenta (sexagésimo/a)
Eighteen (eighteenth)
Dieciocho (décimoctavo/a)Seventy (seventieth)
Setenta (septuagésimo/a)
Nineteen (nineteenth)
Diecinueve (décimonoveno/a)
Eighty (eightieth)
Ochenta (Octogésimo/a)
Twenty (twentieth)
Veinte (vigésimo/a)
Ninety (ninetieth)
Noventa (nonagésimo/a)
Thirty (thirtieth)
Treinta (trigésimo/a)
Hundred (hundredth)
Cien (centésimo)
Forty (fortieth)
Cuarenta (cuadragésimo/a)
Thousand
Mil (milésimo/a)
What time is it?
¿Qué hora es?
07h00 Seven o‟clock in the morning
Las siete de la mañana
07h30 Seven thirty in the morning
Las siete y media de la mañana
12h00 Midday
Las doce del mediodía
13h00 One o‟clock in the afternoon
La una de la tarde
14h40 Two-forty in the afternoon
Las dos y cuarenta de la tarde
19h45 seven-forty-five in the evening
Las siete y cuarenta y cinco de la tarde
00h00 midnight
Las doce de la noche (medianoche)
General vocabulary
Cell
Celda
Visiting rooms
Salas de visita
Bed
Cama
Garden
Jardín
Individual cell
Celda individual
Reception
Recepción
Shared cell
Celda compartida
Director
Director
Library
Biblioteca
Assisant Director
Ayudante del director
Showers
Duchas
Shopkeeper
Tendero/a
Toilet
Cuarto de baño
Guard/Warder
Guardia/Vigilante
Books
Libros
Envelope
Sobre
Pen
Bolígrafo
Stamp
Sello
Paper
Papel
Telephone
Teléfono
Letter
Carta
Stationery
Toiletries
Soap
Jabón
Toilet Paper
Papel higiénico
Shampoo
Champú
Wash
Lavar
Toothbrush
Cepillo de dientes
Razor
Navaja
Toothpaste
Pasta de dientes
Shave
Afeitar
Deodorant
Desodorante
Towel
Toalla
Tissues
Pañuelos de papel
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Other items
Shop/Canteen
Tienda/Cantina
Playing cards
Una baraja
Blanket
Manta
Ball
Pelota
Radio
Radio
Battery
Pila/Batería
CD/cassette player
Lector de CDs/Radio-cassette
Clothing
Shirt
Camisa
Jumper/pullover
Jersey
Shorts
Pantalones cortos
Jeans
Vaqueros
Shoes
Zapatos
Vest
Camiseta de tiras
Socks
Calcetines
Sandals
Sandalias
Underwear
Ropa interior
Small
Pequeño/a
Trousers
Pantalones
Medium
Mediano/a
T-shirt
Camiseta
Large
Grande
Trainers
Zapatillas de deporte
Proper Nouns
British Consul
Cónsul británico/a
Scotland
Escocia
Britain
Gran Bretaña
Wales
Gales
British
Británico/a
Northern Ireland
Irlanda del Norte
England
Inglaterra
Family
Friend
Amigo/a
Wife
Mujer
Family
Familia
Partner
Pareja
Mother
Madre
Daughter
Hija
Father
Padre
Son
Hijo
Sister
Hermana
Child
Niño/a
Brother
Hermano
Cousin
Primo/a
Husband
Marido
Food/meals
Breakfast
Desayuno
Cup/Mug
Taza
Lunch
Comida
Plate
Plato
Dinner
Cena
Bottle
Botella
To eat
Comer
Coffee
Café
To drink
Beber
Tea
Té
Knife
Cuchillo
Water
Agua
Fork
Tenedor
Milk
Leche
Spoon
Cuchara
Powdered milk
Leche en polvo
Tray
Bandeja
Soda
Soda
Glass
Vaso
Hot chocolate
Chocolate caliente
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Fresh fruit
Fruta fresca
Green beans
Judías verdes
Apple
Manzana
Peas
Guisantes
Orange
Naranja
Potato
Patata
Banana
Plátano
Peppers
Pimientos
Pear
Pera
Onion
Cebolla
Meat
Carne
Lettuce
Lechuga
Lamb
Cordero
Bread
Pan
Beef
Carne de vaca
Rice
Arroz
Pork
Cerdo
Pasta
Pasta
Ham
Jamón
Butter
Mantequilla
Bacon
Panceta/Beicon
Jam/preserve
Mermelada
Chicken
Pollo
Eggs
Huevos
Fish
Pescado
Cheese
Queso
Tuna
Atún
Oil
Aceite
Cod
Bacalao
Salt
Sal
Sea food
Marisco
Sugar
Azúcar
Vegetables
Verduras
Yoghurt
Yogur
Cabbage
Repollo
Biscuits
Galletas
Carrot
Zanahoria
Cereal
Cereales
Mushroom
Champiñón
Chocolate
Chocolate
Spinach
Espinaca
Body/Health
I have diarrhoea
I need to see the Doctor
I have spots
I require medical assistance for the following reasons…
I have a rash
It is urgent
I am diabetic
I don‟t feel very well
I am epileptic
I am bleeding
I have a pain in my…
Necesito ver a un médico
Mild pain
Necesito ayuda médica por las siguientes razones…
Severe pain
Es urgente
I have a cold/flu
No me siento muy bien
I have a sore throat
Estoy sangrando
I have a fever
Me duele el/la…
I am allergic to…
Dolor moderado
I am having problems breathing
Dolor fuerte
I have a cold
Tengo un resfriado/gripe
I have an upset stomach
Me duele la garganta
I am constipated
Tengo fiebre
Soy alérgico a…
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Tengo problemas al respirar
Tengo catarro
Me duele el estómago
Estoy estreñido/a
Tengo diarrea
Tengo granos
Tengo un sarpullido
Soy diabético/a
Tengo problemas del corazón
Me duele el oído
Me duele la cabeza
Tengo calambres
Tengo problemas en los ojos
Necesito que me examinen los ojos
Estoy embarazada
Tengo la tensión alta/baja
Tengo el colesterol alto
¿Tienes algo para…?
¿Tienes una venda?
¿Tienes una tirita?
Tengo epilepsia
I have heart problems
I have ear ache
I have a headache
I have cramps
I have problems with my eyes
Necesito ver al dentista
Me duele una muela/un diente
Tengo una muela/diente rota/o
Un empaste
Caries
Un diente (front)/Una muela(back)
La muela del juicio
I need to have my eyes tested
I am pregnant
I have high/low blood pressure
I have high cholesterol
Have you something for…
Do you have a bandage?
Do you have a plaster?
Dental terms
I need to see the dentist
I have toothache
I have broken a tooth
A filling
Tooth decay
A tooth
A wisdom tooth
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Phrases which may be used by the doctor
Where does it hurt?
Do you have a temperature?
Do you have any allergies?
Do you suffer from any other illnesses?
What medication do you take normally?
Are you receiving medical treatment at the moment? What type?
Since when?
Is this the first time you have had this problem?
Do you have a cold?
What colour is the phlegm?
Are you a drug addict?
How much do you weigh?
Step onto the scales please?
Please lie on the bed
Please take off your shirt
This is a prescription for…
You must take this medication…
…before you go to bed
…three times a day
…in the morning and at night
¿Dónde te duele?
¿Tienes fiebre?
¿Tienes alguna alergia?
¿Tienes alguna otra enfermedad?
¿Tomas algún tipo de medicación?
¿Estás recibiendo tratamiento médico en estos momentos?
¿De qué tipo?
¿Desde cuándo?
¿Es ésta la primera vez que tienes este problema?
¿Tienes catarro?
¿De qué color es la flema?
¿Tienes adicción a alguna droga?
¿Cuánto pesas?
Súbete a las pesas por favor
Acuéstate en la camilla/cama por favor
Sácate la camisa por favor
Ésta es una receta para…
Debes tomarte esta medicina…
…antes de irte a la cama
…tres veces al día
…por la mañana y por la noche
Prescribed drugs/treatment
Painkiller
Analgésico
Antibiotics
Antibiótico
Analgesics
Analgésico
Aspirin
Aspirina
Sleeping tablet
Pastillas para dormir
Tranquiliser
Tranquilizante
Laxative
Laxante
Antiseptic
Antiséptico
Lice treatment
Tratamiento para piojos
Inhaler
Inhalador
Tablet/Pill
Pastilla/Píldora
Capsule
Cápsula
Cream
Crema
Injection
Inyección
Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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Vaccine
Bandage
Vacuna
Venda
Human Body
The head
The skull
Hair
Face
Eye/eyes
Nose
Mouth
Lips
Tongue
Ear
Neck
Throat
Shoulder
Chest
Breasts (female)
Stomach
Back
Arms
Elbow
Hand
Finger
Thumb
Hip
Anus
Penis
Testicles
Vagina
Leg
Knee
Ankle
Foot
Heel
Toe
Limb
Muscle
Bone
Spinal column
Rib
Skin
Heart
Lungs
Liver
Kidneys
Bladder
Breathing
Blood
La cabeza
El Cráneo
Pelo
Cara
Ojo/ojos
Nariz
Boca
Labios
Lengua
Oreja (external)/Oído(internal)
Cuello
Garganta
Hombro
Pecho
Pechos
Estómago
Espalda
Brazos
Codo
Mano
Dedo
Dedo pulgar
Cadera
Ano
Pene
Testículos
Vagina
Pierna
Rodilla
Tobillo
Pie
Talón
Dedo del pie
Extremidad
Músculo
Hueso
Columna Vertebral
Costilla
Piel
Corazón
Pulmones
Hígado
Riñones
Vejiga
Respirar
Sangre
Health problems
An illness
A pain
An injury/wound
An infection
Abscess
Angina
Not protectively marked
Una enfermedad
Un dolor
Una herida
Una infección
Absceso
Angina de pecho
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Appendicitis
Arthritis
Asthma
A bite (insect)
Bronchitis
Cancer
Concussion
Cough
Cyst
Diabetes
An epileptic fit
Fever
Fracture
A hernia
HIV/AIDS
Liver attack
Leukaemia
Malaria
Migraine
Depression
Pneumonia
Rheumatism
A scar
A scratch
Sprain
An insect sting
Sun stroke
Tuberculosis
Typhoid
Ulcer
Not protectively marked
Apendicitis
Artritis
Asma
Una picadura
Bronquitis
Cáncer
Conmoción cerebral
Catarro
Quiste
Diabetis
Un ataque epiléptico
Fiebre
Fractura
Una hernia
Virus del SIDA
Ataque hepático/del hígado
Leucemia
Malaria
Migraña
Depresión
Pulmonía
Reumatismo
Una cicatriz
Un arañazo
Esquince
Una picadura de insecto
Insolación
Tuberculosis
Fiebre tifoidea
Úlcera
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Information Pack for British Prisoners in Ecuador
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DISCLAIMER
This booklet was compiled by the Consular Section, British Embassy Quito. It is revised on
a regular basis.
If any of the information contained in this booklet is incorrect, please draw inaccuracies to
our attention so that we can make amendments.
The Consular Section of the British Embassy in Quito is not accountable for the Information
provided in this booklet. Local proceedings are subject to change at any time.
Thank you.
(April 2015)
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