[Greens-Media] Greens: CCTV footage requires independent investigation - Pennicuik

[Amanda.Sharp at parliament.vic.gov.au]

Thursday 6 October 2011

Greens: CCTV footage requires independent investigation

Greens Justice and Corrections spokesperson Sue Pennicuik MLC says that 
the release of CCTV footage showing a woman allegedly being kicked and 
capsicum sprayed in a police cell once again shows the need for an 
independent body to investigate reports or allegations of police violence.

"The CCTV footage released by the Herald Sun today is disturbing, 
particularly as it is reported that the person may have a psychiatric 
condition," Ms Pennicuik said. 

"Police say that the Ethical Standards Division will investigate the 
incident, but the problem is that no matter how professional the ESD is, 
it is not independent of the Victoria Police."

"Last year I moved in parliament that an independent body be established 
to investigate incidents of violence and breaches of human rights. This 
year the OPI called for an independent body to investigate deaths as a 
result of contact with police," Ms Pennicuik said. "The government should 
act to establish an independent body to ensure public trust and openness 
in the police force."

"This incident also highlights that CCTV in all police interview rooms and 
cells is critical," she said. 

"More than six months ago I asked a question on notice of the Police 
Minister as to which police stations were fully equipped with CCTV. I am 
yet to receive an answer, despite numerous requests to his office."

For further comment: Sue Pennicuik  0409 055 875 / (03) 9530 8399

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Parliament of Victoria                                                                                                                    . 
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