Injured illegal immigrant ends challenge to transfer back to homeland

By Melissa E. Holsman
Posted March 17, 2010 at 8:39 p.m.
updated March 18, 2010 at 6:04 a.m.

STUART — Seven years after Martin Memorial Hospital returned illegal immigrant Luis Jimenez to his native Guatemala, his attorneys announced they will not pursue further legal action in his case, ending a protracted legal battle launched on his behalf in 2003.

According to a statement issued Wednesday by Martin Memorial officials, the move comes after a judge denied motions filed by lawyers representing Jimenez’s court-appointed guardian challenging a 2009 jury verdict that ruled in favor of the hospital.

Martin Memorial officials said once all legal proceedings are terminated, they’ll contribute $40,000 to help pay for Jimenez’s long-term medical needs “that otherwise would have been used for legal expenses.â€