The facts of the case concern the lack of adequate medical attention received by Pedro Vera Vera, and his subsequent death while in police custody. The victim received a bullet wound while being chased by a group of people and police officers after being intercepted stealing. After his detention in April 1993, he was taken to a public hospital. The following day he was discharged on the grounds that his wound did not require hospitalization, and was transferred the Centre for Provisional Detention of Santo Domingo. 4 days later he was readmitted into the hospital, where he subsequently died.

The IA Court determined that the deficient and delayed medical attention afforded to the victim caused the deterioration in his physical condition, which then lead to his death. The IA Court established that the State’s conduct constituted inhumane and degrading treatment. Additionally, responsibility was also established for incompliance with the duty of investigating,

ex officio

, the death of Vera Vera.