Controversial spit hoods banned in QLD watch houses

Controversial spit hoods will no longer be used in police watch houses in Queensland, following a review.
The spit hoods are used to prevent a detainee from spitting on or biting an officer.
The ban was announced by Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll, who said she recognised the community’s concern in the use of the “safety hoods”.
Assistant Commissioner Mark Wheeler said it was an emotive and complex issue.
“Most other states have moved away from using safety hoods in watch houses, so we are kind of towards the end of the line there this is not us on our own,” he told Peter Fegan, on Brisbane Live.
“From a personal perspective, I absolutely understand what that’s like, I have been spat on myself throughout my career on a number of occasions, I have worked across the state.
“And I have had disease test orders where I have waited for months … so I absolutely empathise.”
But he said there were other tactics which police could use.
Press PLAY below to hear more why police say it was time to ban the hoods