2021 | Two leather and two metal cuffs are kept in each [specially secured] cell [at prison Tegel] for this purpose. According to information provided by the facility, the metal cuffs, which can be locked more quickly, are used as a means of aiding the use of physical force for the immediate restraint of prisoners in order to ensure they can be restrained quickly in situations of distress. These are then replaced by padded leather cuffs, which are brought in from another specially secured cell. However, when several prisoners are restrained in different cells at the same time, there are insufficient leather cuffs available. Thus, there is a danger of metal cuffs being used for a longer period of time. Suitable material must be available on site. The National Agency is aware that, in the forensic psychiatric sector and in many prisons, textile restraints are used exclusively. The use of metal cuffs has a high potential for injury to the restrained person. It can result in haematomas or compressed nerves. | Report details |