• Submitted by: manso
• international
• 08 / 14 / 2010

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A benefit concert to raise money for the family of an Ontario teenager who spent more than three months stuck in Cuba under threat of imprisonment for a traffic accident will take place next month.

Cody LeCompte racked up more than $30,000 in legal fees and accommodation costs after the Cuban government ordered him to remain at his Santa Lucia resort pending the outcome of an investigation into an April 29 traffic collision.

Public pressure and a stern warning from the Canadian government that tourism might suffer if the matter wasn't resolved
finally led to the 19-year-old Simcoe, Ont., man's release last week.

Kevin McCart, the creator of the "Bring Cody LeCompte Home" Facebook page, which has attracted more than 3,700 supporters, has since put together a quadruple bill to help raise funds for LeCompte and his mother, Danette.

"It is our hope that this event will free the LeComptes from their debt incurred through Cuban detention," McCart said in a news release Friday.

The event featuring hip hop artist Dylan James, hard rockers Murmur and Persist as well as AC/DC cover band Thunderstruck will take place Sept. 3 at Club 77 in Hamilton, Ont.

"Anyone who cannot attend can still make a donation to the trust fund at any TD Canada Trust," McCart said.

LeCompte arrived back in Canada last Friday after Cuban authorities finally unblocked his passport after he signed a promise to return should charges be laid against him.

He and his mother travelled to Cuba on a two-week holiday to celebrate his acceptance to Sault College's aviation program, but just three days in they were broadsided by a dump truck at an intersection.

LeCompte, who was driving, suffered a broken hand, possible broken ribs and a broken collarbone, in the accident and was never properly treated for his injuries.

Source: www.vancouversun.com/