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Home / Investigation Reports & Media / 2021 Summaries of Police Investigations

Self-harm and attempted suicide in custody – Central District

 22 December 2021


The Authority oversaw a Police investigation where it was alleged a custody sergeant failed to take appropriate action after a man attempted suicide and later injured himself while in Police custody. 

In May 2018, Police arrested a man for disorderly behaviour. While in Police custody, the man attempted to strangle himself with items of clothing on two separate occasions. He then repeatedly banged his head against a cell door.

Police found that the custody sergeant failed to ensure that the man was constantly monitored following the two suicide attempts and refused to provide him with a tear-resistant gown. Police apologised to the man for the way he was treated.

IPCA: 17-2408

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