‘Inmates running asylum’

TOWNSVILLE’S youth detention centre has become an asylum run by inmates, according to a North Queensland MP, who says a tragedy is imminent.

Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto made the bold statement in the wake of three juveniles scaling the sides of the Cleveland Youth Detention Centre and wrecking parts of the roof for more than three hours.

Mr Dametto said juvenile offenders were “running rampant”.

“We cannot continue to have a situation where the inmates are running the asylum. Time and time again, we have seen staff used as punching bags by inmates and verbally threatened,” Mr Dametto said.

“My fear is we are heading towards a tragedy where either a staff member or an inmate is seriously injured or worse because of this toxic environment that has been allowed to fester on the department’s watch.”

Townsville MP Scott Stewart said he expected an investigation to occur with the appropriate consequences for those involved.

“The resolution was brought about due to the experience and patience of the department staff and police on hand, and for that I thank them,” Mr Stewart said.

“We know we are dealing with young people in situations like this who don’t necessarily follow the rules.

“That’s why an investigation will occur and I’d expect there would be consequences for those who chose to thumb their noses at the rules and regulations in CYDC.”

Mr Stewart said he welcomed the new Youth Justice Minister Leanne Linard to Townsville last week to speak with frontline staff at the centre.