Northern Territory police have announced they will not lay charges against officers involved in the death of 24-year-old Warlpiri man Kumanjayi White while he was being restrained in an Alice Springs supermarket. The incident occurred in 2019 when White was taken into custody by police for allegedly stabbing an officer with a screwdriver. He died after being restrained by police in the store's freezer section.
Northern Territory Police Commissioner Jamie Chalmers acknowledged the decision to not lay charges would cause 'significant distress' for White's family and community. Chalmers stated: 'The outcome of this investigation may cause significant distress for Kumanjayi's family, friends, and the broader Warlpiri community, and we acknowledge this.'
The investigation into White's death was conducted by the Northern Territory Police's Major Crime Unit and involved a review of CCTV footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence. The coroner's report into the incident is still pending.
The decision not to lay charges has been met with criticism by Indigenous leaders and advocates, who argue that police actions contributed to White's death. White's family has also expressed their disappointment with the outcome.
The Northern Territory government has announced an independent review into the handling of Indigenous deaths in custody, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The review will examine the circumstances surrounding White's death, as well as other high-profile cases.
The decision to not lay charges against the officers involved in White's death has raised concerns about police accountability and the treatment of Indigenous Australians in custody.