Aboriginal woman’s death in custody in NT prompts calls for independent investigation

Police say woman's death in Tennant Creek appeared to be the result of a medical episode, but Aboriginal legal service says internal investigation is not sufficient'

• Warning: This article contains references to Indigenous Australians who have died

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The Northern Territory's peak Aboriginal legal service has called for an independent investigation after a 44-year-old Aboriginal mother of five died at the Tennant Creek watch house last Saturday.

NT police said her death appeared to be the result of a medical episode inside her cell on 27 December, after she was arrested on Christmas Day for an alleged aggravated assault.

Indigenous Australians can call 13YARN on 13 92 76 for information and crisis support; or call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline on 1300 789 978 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636