Press Release

Correctional officers stop person in custody from self-harm

     Correctional Officers stopped a person in custody from committing self-harm at Hei Ling Chau Correctional Institution yesterday (June 18).

     At 7.43pm, patrolling staff found the 49-year-old male person in custody, who was in the institution's hospital for medical observation, suddenly becoming emotional and hitting his head against a wall. The officers at the scene stopped him and called for reinforcements. Upon the arrival of more staff, the person in custody, who was still emotional, hit his head against the wall again. In order to prevent him from hurting himself, OC foam was applied, after warnings, to subdue him.

     The man suffered minor injuries to his head and hands, and was treated at the institution's hospital. He remained in the hospital for observation after treatment. A clinical psychologist will follow up on the case.

     A spokesman for the Correctional Services Department said, "The department uses all possible measures to prevent people in its custody from attempting suicide or self-harm. These measures include administrative arrangements, the improvement of institution facilities, staff training and first aid services."

     The male person in custody was convicted for an offence of theft.

Ends/Thursday, June 19, 2014
Issued at HKT 12:35

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