Annette Sykes: Dean Wickliffe's lawyer on Wickliffe undertaking hunger strike after alleged assault by guard - Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

A 77-year-old prisoner has accused prison guards of beating him and is undertaking a hunger strike. 

Corrections says Dean Wickliffe refused to enter his cell, threw an item at guards and was injured after taking up a fighting stance. 

It says one staffer involved is not at work - and appropriate action will be taken if staff don't meet standards. 

Wickliffe hasn't eaten for 10 days. 

His lawyer, Annette Sykes, says he was beaten badly. 

"Photos have been released that show, quite clearly, that his version of events has some veracity." 

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