NCJ Number
137261
Date Published
1991
Length
113 pages
Annotation
This analysis of allegations that police assaulted Aborigines and maltreated them after arrest, in connection with efforts to control a riot in Inala, Queensland, Australia in November 1990, concludes that several measures are needed to produce meaningful and positive change in relations between the police and Aborigines.
Abstract
The police all insisted that no excessive force was used, either in dispersing the crowd or in making arrests. Those who used batons stated that they were used strictly in accordance with defined police procedures. In addition, seven police officers were injured. In contrast, Aboriginal witnesses complained about the use of batons, stating that children were injured and that excessive use of force occurred during arrests. The complaints focused on actions ranging from swearing to hitting with batons. However, most claims were not supported by medical evidence. Therefore, it appears that the general level of force was not unreasonable. The Queensland Police Service is committed to developing community policing in the Inala area. Additional efforts needed include regular liaison between police and the Aboriginal community; training of police regarding Aboriginal issues, mediation, and crowd control; and development of a network of trusted representatives of minority groups to assist in addressing potentially dangerous situations. Footnotes and appended chart and background information