The family of a First Nation’s man who died in custody over the weekend have paid tribute to him, describing him as an amazing father, artist and fisherman.
The 29-year old man – who was on remand – was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital on Friday following an altercation at the Yatala Labour Prison.
On Monday afternoon Mr Morrison’s sister, Latoya Rule, said the family was still in shock, and that he was an “amazing person.”
CEO of the Aboriginal Legal Rights Movement, Cheryl Axleby, has called for an independent investigation into the incident.
ALRM deputy chair Tauto Sansbury said the family deserved the full truth.
“The next step is we are going to meet with the family and discuss what exactly happens because now it’s a death in custody,” he said.
On Monday the Correctional Services Department released a statement extending its condolences to Mr Morrison’s family.
Department chief executive David Brown said they are doing everything in their power to assist SA police with the investigation.
“SA Police are currently investigating the incident and in accordance with the Coroners Act 2003, the death will also be subject to a coroner’s inquiry.”
The Correctional Services Minister Peter Malinauskas has denied any “conspiracies of any cover-up” between the Correctional Services Department and SA Police.
A police investigation into the incident is underway,
