A British senior citizen known for playing bowls and accused of involvement in drug trafficking internationally has been freed from prison in Chile due to health concerns.

William ‘Billy Boy’ Eastment, an 80-year-old retired mechanic and avid bowls enthusiast, was under preventive detention since May last year. Following a court hearing in Santiago, where both prosecution and defense acknowledged his deteriorating health, he was moved from Santiago 1 Penitentiary to house arrest.

Eastment was apprehended during a layover in Santiago while journeying from Mexico to Australia. Authorities alleged discovering nearly five kilograms of methamphetamine in his luggage, a claim he denies, insisting he was deceived into carrying the bag.

His lawyer, Macarena Vial, emphasized his critical health condition, citing chronic ailments worsened by his confinement. She outlined the challenges faced in managing his medical needs while detained, including the complex process of obtaining essential supplies like colostomy bags.

Eastment’s health declined significantly in custody, leading to considerable weight loss. The court’s decision of house arrest entails his placement in a care facility in western Santiago, ensuring daily assistance and oversight.

Legal proceedings are ongoing, with efforts to expedite the trial due to his health status. Despite discussions of a shortened legal process, extradition to the UK is not being pursued, as Chilean law prohibits deportation for drug-related offenses.

Eastment’s initial ineligibility for Chile’s health system as a tourist necessitated financial support for medical expenses. He claimed to have been misled by individuals posing as representatives of the International Monetary Fund, luring him into the situation.

The case against Eastment continues as investigations persist, with his lawyer addressing the circumstances surrounding his alleged involvement in drug trafficking.