Nina Priestly, a youth custodial officer, expressed deep sadness over the death of a detainee named Cleveland, stating that she had a “soft spot” for him. She had joined the department with the intention of helping her people and showing compassion to detainees despite their circumstances. Cleveland’s death had a significant impact on her, as it went against the reasons she had joined the profession.
The court heard that detainees in Unit 18 were constantly making threats to self-harm, creating a difficult situation for staff to determine the seriousness of these threats. The situation had escalated over the years, with self-harm attempts becoming increasingly common. Cleveland’s own threats to self-harm on the day of his death were triggered by staff ignoring his requests for water, which he had been denied despite the United Nations stipulation that drinking water should be available to prisoners whenever they need it.
In the months leading up to his death, Cleveland had spent a significant amount of time locked in his cell, with limited access to schooling and other activities. The inquest revealed that the officer on duty, Mr Torrijos, had been investigated and disciplined in the past for failing to properly conduct cell checks and reporting inaccurately about them. Mr Torrijos defended himself by stating that he was overworked and could not realistically fulfill all the tasks assigned to him.
The tragic circumstances surrounding Cleveland’s death shed light on the challenges faced by both detainees and staff in the youth custodial system. The court heard testimonies from those who worked closely with Cleveland, highlighting the personal impact his death had on them. The inquest revealed systemic issues within the facility, including the prevalence of self-harm attempts and the lack of access to basic necessities like water.
The court also heard about the ongoing struggles faced by Aboriginal detainees within the system, with Ms Priestly emphasizing the importance of showing compassion and making a difference for her people. The inquest underscored the need for improved training and support for staff members, as well as better resources and protocols for dealing with detainees in crisis situations. The tragic death of Cleveland serves as a reminder of the urgent need for reform and accountability within the youth custodial system.
In conclusion, the inquest into Cleveland’s death brought to light the challenges and shortcomings within the youth custodial system, highlighting the need for improved conditions and support for both detainees and staff. The personal testimonies of those involved in the case underscored the devastating impact of such tragedies and the importance of taking steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. The court’s findings will hopefully lead to changes that prioritize the well-being and safety of all individuals within the youth custodial system.
