Corrections Minister Gerard Maley has rejected calls for an independent investigation following a second death in custody, saying he has full confidence in the NT Police Force. 

Asked about concerns raised by NAAJA that the government’s bail reforms have watered down the presumption of innocence, making Aboriginal people fearful of police and the justice system, Mr Maley said his priority is keeping the community safe, adding if people don’t offend they won’t have interactions with the police. 

The Minister also remains firm that prison programs and the support provided to inmates aims to rehabilitate, educate, provide routine and break the cycle of addiction in response to claims by a criminal defence lawyer that jailing makes people better criminals when released. 

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