Police acknowledge the Independent Police Conduct Authority's findings into an incident in 2023 where a man self-harmed while in Police custody.
The incident occurred on 6 October 2023 at the Auckland District Custody Unit, after a man in custody was found unconscious and unresponsive.
He was taken to Auckland Hospital and died three days later, as a result of suspected self-harm.
The IPCA's investigation found there were Police failings in the care of the man.
The day before, Police had arrested the man in relation to a stabbing at an Auckland dairy.
He was taken to the Auckland District Custody Unit where he attempted to flee but was detained by staff.
The man was subsequently placed into a restraining chair due to his erratic behaviour, and a short time later an ambulance was called and the man was taken to hospital under sedation.
Later that day the man was discharged from hospital and returned to the custody unit.
The Authority's report found the use of a restraint chair was justified, but that it was unreasonable to have him handcuffed.
After being returned to the custody unit, a Police doctor carried out a medical observation and advised the man could be placed on 'frequent' monitoring, which required him to be checked five times an hour.
Custody staff recorded that they completed 80 checks on the man overnight and a further 30 checks on him in the morning.
The IPCA noted that some of the checks were inconsistent with policy as the officer did not go to the cell.
At about 10.54am that day, an officer went to check on the man and found him unresponsive.
First aid was commenced, and he was transported to hospital where he died three days later.
Auckland City District Commander, Superintendent Sunny Patel, says Police acknowledge the Authority's findings in this case.
"A critical incident investigation was commenced as well as a review into the prisoner checking system.
"As a result, Police have implemented several learnings including updating the national People in Police Custody Policy."
"We would also like to again extend our condolences to the man's family and friends."
The matter remains with the Coroner.
