Press Release

CSD responds to enquiries on court case

     In response to media enquiries on a court case today (August 31), the Correctional Services Department (CSD) gave the following reply:

     As the Coroner will conduct a death inquest into the incident in accordance with the Coroners Ordinance on October 5, 2012, it is not appropriate for the Department to offer any comment at this stage.

     The use of force by CSD staff is clearly stipulated in Prison Rules of Cap 234A, Laws of Hong Kong as well as the departmental Standing Orders and Standing Procedures. Based on the relevant ordinance, the Department has made and updated from time to time guidelines and training materials to teach its staff on the various circumstances where appropriate force can be used.

     CSD has clear guidelines on its staff involving any legal proceedings. Any staff member convicted of criminal offence will be dealt with according to established mechanism. Appropriate follow up action will be taken after the Department has studied the relevant judgment.

     CSD staff is committed to upholding our core values, i.e. integrity, professionalism, humanity, discipline and perseverance, and fulfilling the pledge to serve the community.

Ends/Friday, August 31, 2012
Issued at HKT 22:05

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