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Death in custody video evidence

PRESS STATEMENT

12.00 Midday - 31 JANUARY 2005
ROMA STREET FORUM

BRAD FOSTER - Doomadgee Family representative

Introduction - Thanks for attending

"It is my understanding that crucial video evidence from the Palm Island police station was selectively turned off during the incident which led to the death of Cameron Doomadgee."

"This is only one of the gaps in events surrounding the suspicious death in custody of Cameron Doomadgee which the CMC is supposedly investigating.

"The Palm Island Community and the Doomadgee family have serious concerns regarding the CMC investigation into Cameron's death."

"The Palm Island Community believes there is a conflict of interest when police are involved in investigating police action - this is unacceptable - the community needs to be satisfied that the investigation is above board and provides real answers."

"We have now lost confidence in the CMC's ability to undertake their investigation in a fair and reasonable manner. We now call for a Federal Government royal commission into Mr Doomadgee's death."

"The public have a right to demand a thorough and transparent investigation. "We do not have faith in the up coming Coronial Inquiry as police are not forced to testify under oath. The Doomadgee family believes the coronial inquiry will be a white wash."

"Premier Beattie has already stated that the police did nothing wrong - this is political interference. For the Premier to comment before the outcome of any investigation leads us to believe that there is a cover-up. There are good reasons for a Royal Commission investigation to be commenced as soon as possible."

Brad Foster can be contacted on 0427 027 063.

Further information: palm island issues page - includes news index and external links

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