At about 1am on Sunday 23 February, Police were called to an address in Manurewa by a member of the public. Upon arrival, Police found family members trying to restrain an intoxicated man who was violent and aggressive. He was arrested for breach of the peace and taken to Manukau Police Station for detoxification.
The 20 year old man continued to behave in a violent and aggressive manner while in custody. He was placed in a monitored cell and a Police doctor assessed his condition.
After 5am the man’s condition was checked again and he was found to be suffering from laboured breathing. He was placed in the recovery position and Police staff performed CPR on him until ambulance staff arrived. Paramedics continued CPR for over 40 minutes.
The man was pronounced dead by paramedics at 6:10am.
“This is a sad and difficult time for all involved,” says Counties Manukau Police District Commander Superintendent John Tims. “Our staff make every effort to assure the safety of intoxicated people while in custody. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family.”
A post mortem will be conducted to establish the cause of death.
A criminal investigation and policy and procedures investigation is underway and the incident has been referred to the IPCA.
Support is being offered to the family of the deceased and Police staff involved in the incident have been referred to welfare services.
The matter has been referred to the Coroner.
ENDS
Note: no more information will be available until after midday tomorrow (Monday 24 February).
Issued by Kimberley Mathews/Communications Manager, Counties Manukau Police
021 192 0717