Implementation of Duties and Powers of the National Preventive Mechanism in 2010
Some PPs have detention rooms, but for different reasons, these are not used (PP
Šentjernej and PP Rogaška Slatina). The detention rooms in PP Rogaška Slatina are not
used because complaints about the material and services performed are being filed there;
detention rooms PP in Šentjernej have not been used since 1 February 2007, although they
are large, equipped and in compliance with the requested standards for detained persons.
The problem lies in the non-classified post of the police officer on duty; therefore the DPM
proposed the option for such classification to be examined. In its response report, MNZ
wrote that Novo mesto Police Directorate (which includes PP Šentjernej) would examine
the possibility of performing detention during day-time from Monday to Friday. Due to the
unused room in PP Šentjernej, detained persons (including the highly intoxicated) have to
be transported for several hours, which is also inappropriate in terms of costs. We therefore
proposed that the reasons preventing the use of the detention rooms be eliminated as soon
as possible. Video-surveillance was not adequately labelled in some detention rooms. We
suggested placing signs with a warning about video-surveillance. In its response, MNZ
informed us that signs had been put in place.
Access to detention rooms in most cases is possible directly across the courtyard (with an
intervention vehicle) or past the police officer on duty; only in some PPs (PP Postojna) are
the detention rooms located in the basement and accessible only by passing the officer on
duty.
Lighting in detention rooms
In two of the examined 22 PPs (PP Nova Gorica and PP Domžale), we observed that there
is no proper daylight and/or artificial lighting in the detention rooms, and in four PPs (PP
Trbovlje, PP Trebnje, PP Novo mesto and PP Rogaška Slatina), there was no daylight at
all. We proposed that stronger lights be used for the artificial lighting. In its response, MNZ
indicated that our proposals would be or had already been considered. In six PPs (PP Nova
Gorica, PP Ljubljana Vič, PP Vrhnika, PP Postojna, PP Novo mesto and PP Šmarje pri Jelšah),
we observed that light in the detention room is on overnight, since video-surveillance is not
possible otherwise. We pointed out that artificial lighting might be disturbing for the detained
person while in custody, and suggested that the PP explore ways of modifying or reducing
the power of the artificial lighting during the night. In its response, MNZ indicated that they
would consider our proposals on the installation of lights with less power appropriate during
the night.
Cleanliness of rooms
Police stations employ a cleaner or have contracts with a cleaning service. Except in PP
Postojna, the detention rooms were clean. In PP Postojna, we established that the walls
of the detention room were rather dirty and needed to be painted, and MNZ agreed. We
commend the keeping of records of room cleaning as performed in some PPs (PP Trebnje).
Equipment of the rooms
The detention rooms are generally adequately equipped (toilets, cushions for lying, bedding).
Beds are typically wooden and equipped with PVC mattresses. Upon arrival, the person
usually receives disposable bedding and a cover, which is stored in a special warehouse or
room. In some PPs, there were no pillows, disposable sheets or chairs and tables.
National Preventive Mechanism in the Republic of Slovenia under the Optional Protocol to
the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
25
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