Teenager beaten with batons in a Queensland watchhouse

Despite a complaint to the police watchdog, the officers involved were found to have used proportionate force.

RAZOR WIRE

Queensland's treatment of young people in the criminal justice system has drawn condemnation. Credit: Dave Hunt/AAP Image

The shocking case of an Indigenous teenager being repeatedly beaten with batons in a Brisbane watchhouse last year has not resulted in any disciplinary action for the officers involved.

CCTV footage of the 2023 incident was aired by the ABC's 7.30 program on Tuesday.
It shows two officers entering the room where the 17-year-old, who cannot be identified, was being held in August of that year.

Within seconds, the boy is being held in a headlock by one, and repeatedly struck with a baton by the other. With a third officer observing, he is eventually restrained and forced into a cell.

The incident was apparently prompted by the teenager raising his voice.

Speaking to the ABC, his mother said he was initially communicating with his brother, who was being held at the same watchhouse.
"They're locked in a little shoe box and he's just trying to kill his time," she said.

A complaint lodged by the teenager was examined by the police's Ethical Standards Command.

However, no adverse findings were made against the officers, who were deemed to have used proportionate force.

Queenland's treatment of children, particularly First Nations children, in the state's justice system has drawn significant criticism for several years.

Advocates have long pointed out the adverse effects incarceration has on young people.

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2 min read
Published 10 July 2024 3:22pm
By Dan Butler
Source: NITV


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