Christchurch teenager spends sixth night in a police cell

Tuesday 19 August 2025 · 5 outlets · 4 reports · updated Wed 20 Aug 2025, 7:44am

A 15-year-old boy has spent six nights in a police cell after being charged with burglary. His mother says the teenager, who has ADHD and mental health issues, was not coping. The Children's Commissioner has called for an end to detaining children in cells due to self-harm risks.

How they headlined it

10h

Tue 7:31pmWed 5:53am6:26am7:44am

1. RNZTue 19 Aug 2025, 7:31pm

   Teenager spending sixth night in a police cell, mum says authorities have failed him (opens in new tab)

   • More young people being detained in police cells for longer - children's commissioner (opens in new tab) Wed 20 Aug 2025, 5:53am
2. Waikato Times via RNZWed 20 Aug 2025, 6:26am

   Christchurch teenager spends six nights in a police cell, mum says authorities have failed him (opens in new tab)

   Also on The Press (opens in new tab), The Post (opens in new tab)

3. Otago Daily TimesWed 20 Aug 2025, 7:44am

   'Not humane': Christchurch teen spends sixth night in police cell (opens in new tab)