Coroner Urges Police Reform on Spit Hood Use Following Detainee’s Custody Death
Auckland, New Zealand — A recent coroner’s report has raised serious concerns about police procedures following the in-custody death of a man suffering from mental health and substance abuse issues. The man, identified as Ngata, died after being detained by police under distressing circumstances that included the use of a spit hood and restraints. Ngata’s death, which occurred shortly after his arrest in July 2018, prompted an inquest that concluded with recommendations for significant changes …