Counties Manukau Police accept the findings of today’s report from the Independent Police Conduct Authority following the death of 20 year old Sentry Taitoko while in Police custody in February 2014, and say recommendations following the tragedy are being implemented.
The report found a number of systemic failings in the treatment of highly intoxicated or vulnerable people while in Police custody.
Counties Manukau Police District Commander Superintendent John Tims says the report demonstrates the complexity of the situations that Police are faced with on a day to day basis, particularly when dealing with people affected by alcohol, drugs or suffering mental distress.
“We accept that there were various failings of Police responsibility during the time that Mr Taitoko was in custody, and we apologise to his family,” says Superintendent Tims. “This is the last thing that we want to happen and we acknowledge that important lessons have been learned following this tragic incident.
“The Authority has also highlighted that number of other agencies play a role, alongside Police, in protecting our community’s most vulnerable. This includes those who are struggling with mental health issues or suffering the consequences of drug or alcohol abuse.
“The report makes a number of recommendations and acknowledges that a number of changes have already been implemented to ensure Police are better equipped to deal with those experiencing these problems.”
New changes include the development and introduction of a new training package for custody officers and a review of training for custody officers to ensure dangerously intoxicated people receive appropriate care while in Police custody. Additionally Police are actively engaging with hospital and ambulance services to ensure workable solutions are found for dealing with intoxicated or unresponsive people.
In 2014, Counties Manukau Police processed over 14,000 people through their District Custody Unit. More than a third of these people were under the influence of drugs or alcohol when in Police custody.
“These numbers demonstrate the sheer volume of people our officers face each day and the often complex circumstances under which they operate. Medical advice from a Police doctor is frequently sought when considering how best to care for a person in custody.”
Counties Manukau Police is continuing to engage with the family of Mr Taitoko to ensure the extent and result of the Police investigation into his death is explained and understood.
No criminal charges will be laid in relation to Mr Taitoko’s death.
“The death of any person is a tragedy and we are continuing to support Mr Taitoko’s family in any way we can,” says Superintendent Tims.
Police staff aim to be calm, empathetic, professional and helpful when dealing with a person under mental distress and aim to get any person with any health issues access to the appropriate health service as quickly as possible.
“For those with mental health issues, seeking help is a good thing. As friends, family, or colleagues, encourage the person to go to their general practitioner or if necessary take them to an emergency department.”
If a person poses or threatens risk to themselves or others or if it is an emergency, call 111 immediately.
ENDS
Issued by Kimberley Mathews/Communications Manager, Counties Manukau Police, ph 021 192 0717.