Spit Hoods: Examining the Risky and Potentially Fatal Practice
On December 24, 2022, the death of 21-year-old Nicous D’Andre Spring in a Montreal jail raised serious concerns over the controversial use of spit hoods in correctional settings. His untimely passing occurred just as his family was preparing for the holiday season, bringing profound sorrow to his loved ones.
Timeline of Events
Spring was initially arrested for violating a court-imposed curfew. Although a judge ordered his release a day before his death, he remained unlawfully detained. Following a confrontation with another inmate, correctional officers intervened, leading to a concerning series of events.
The Use of Spit Hoods
During the incident, correctional staff placed a spit hood—a mesh covering intended to prevent spitting—over Spring’s head. Eyewitness accounts indicate he was already in distress when this occurred. Subsequently, officers deployed pepper spray, and Spring was later found unresponsive in his cell.
Fatalities Linked to Spit Hoods
This incident is not an isolated case. Investigative reports have revealed that Canada has seen 17 fatalities connected to spit hoods over the past two decades. In nearly every case, misuse of these hoods was noted, underscoring a critical need for stricter regulations and oversight.
Expert Opinions
- Michael Arruda, a crisis intervention expert, criticized the lack of standardized training related to spit hood use across Canada.
- Improper application can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.
Controversies Surrounding Spit Hoods
Originally introduced in the late 1990s, spit hoods were aimed at protecting first responders from potential exposure. However, medical experts have pointed out significant risks, including suffocation and aggravation of existing health conditions. Moreover, many first responders report inadequate training in the proper use of these devices.
Inconsistent Training and Regulations
A documentary highlighted the varying use of spit hoods across Canadian provinces. Although some areas have established training protocols, others lack systematic guidelines for their use. The absence of comprehensive data makes it challenging to assess the full scope of risks associated with these devices.
Public Inquiry and Calls for Reform
The tragic death of Nicous D’Andre Spring has prompted a public inquiry to investigate accountability in correctional practices. In light of this event, Spring’s family has initiated a civil lawsuit against Quebec’s Attorney General, alleging negligence played a role in his death.
Demand for Change
The circumstances surrounding Spring’s case have sparked discussions regarding the need for reform in the deployment of spit hoods. Advocates are calling for improved training and better regulatory measures to prevent further tragedies.
As the pursuit for justice continues, the need for rigorous safety protocols in detention facilities has become more urgent than ever.
