Victoria's police chief apologises over man's death in custody
Chief Commissioner Mike Bush apologised after Victoria Police acknowledged failures in the care of John Makai, 58, who died in hospital.
An inquest into John Makai's death heard Victoria Police failed to provide proper care, prompting an apology from Chief Commissioner Mike Bush. Makai, 58, collapsed at his Sunbury home during arrest for a family violence incident and was transported unresponsive to Broadmeadows police station.
Makai was placed in a cell for five hours without adequate medical checks or assessment of his deteriorating condition. Paramedics found signs of brain injury when called to the station.
Makai died in hospital with a non-survival brain injury. Police conceded they failed to conduct medical assessments, complete risk paperwork or rouse him regularly, as required.
Why it mattersDeaths in police custody demand accountability and system review to prevent future tragedies in care of detainees.
AustraliaThe inquest finding raises questions about duty of care in police cells across Australia and may prompt safety reviews in other states.
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