Inquest into death of man at Darwin prison finds urgent changes need to be made
An inquest has found urgent changes need to be made to how a Northern Territory prison operates, after crucial mistakes saw an inmate take his life in his cell in 2017.
Sean Collins, 32, died at Darwin Correctional Centre.
Darwin Coroners Court heard on the first day of the inquest Mr Collins from the US had tried to get help but got lost in a "bureaucratic jungle".
Sean Collins, 32, took his own life in a cell in 2017. Supplied
Counsel Assisting Kelvin Currie said on one occasion, he wrote: "I want to see a doctor for my mental health ASAP, I'm hearing voices in my head."
He received no response.
On another occasion, he received an in-eligibility letter, then was put on a wait list.
His mother and two sisters, who flew over from the US, read out letters to prison officers and mental health experts in court today.
Darwin Coroners Court heard on the first day of the inquest Mr Collins from the US had tried to get help but got lost in a "bureaucratic jungle". Nine
One of his sisters pleaded for staff to have empathy beyond checklists, emphasizing the need for adequate mental health services.
"He was ignored and unheard," she said. "It just took one staff member, just one."
Counsel Assisting found he was denied adequate care, supervision and treatment across the board.
Sean Collin's sister at the inquest into his death in Darwin. Nine
Coroner Greg Caranagh will compile further recommended changes over the coming weeks.
To start with, a psychologist will be employed at the prison from July.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
