CS spray use against juveniles in Portrush and Magherafelt was justified

You are viewing content from Q Mid Ulster 106. Would you like to make this your preferred location?

By Gráinne Connolly

The Police Watchdog says officers were justified in using CS Spray against teenage boys in Portrush and Magherafelt.

It was deployed against a 15-year-old in May 2016, after the PSNI reported that he threatened to kill an officer after they found him in the kitchen of the family home with a hammer in his right hand. 

They said he was warned that CS Spray would be used if he did not drop the weapon, which the teen didn't.

Meanwhile, in a second case, a 17 year old was captured by police body worn video cameras throwing items at officers, including a fire extinguisher. 

The Ombudsman, Dr. Michael Maguire says both incidents involved reports of the teenagers being violent and the reaction was proportionate within official guidelines.

Join the Thank Q Club

Sign up for the Thank Q Club and receive exclusive offers, fun competitions and amazing prizes - it's quick and easy to do!

Sign Up Log In

Listen on the go

Download the Q Radio app to keep listening, wherever you are! It's available on Apple and Android devices.

Download from the App Store Download from Google Play