Police have strengthened custodial management systems and processes at Rotorua and other police stations in the Bay of Plenty District following the death of Anthony McGuire at the Rotorua Police Station on 26 May last year, says Rotorua Area Commander, Inspector Bruce Horne.
Inspector Bruce Horne, Rotorua Area Commander, was commenting following the findings of the IPCA that Mr McGuire took his own life while in custody.
"This was a tragic death, and extremely upsetting for Mr McGuire's partner, family and friends, as well as for Police and custodial staff," Inspector Horne said.
Rotorua Police conducted a full and thorough investigation into Mr McGuire's death and the management of him while he was in police custody.
"We acknowledge there were a number of lapses in our procedures in this case."
Inspector Horne says police have learned from this case. Some of the operational changes to enhance prisoner and officer security and safety in Rotorua have come about through the opening of the new custodial facility which opened at Rotorua Station two months after Mr McGuire died.
This facility has been specifically designed to better ensure the safety of prisoners and Police and custodial staff alike. There is a greater level of supervision and staffing, with a sole focus on prisoner management. Prisoners are constantly monitored by line of sight, and all documentation is now completed electronically and approved by supervisors. Two searches are undertaken and personal property removed, including shoes – again, to ensure the safety of both prisoners and Police and custodial staff.
Inspector Horne said that the systems and processes that are in place at the new custodial facility are working well for Police staff and prisoners alike.
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