Spit Hoods: Deadly Tool or Necessary Restraint?

An investigation into the use of spit hoods in Canada has uncovered 17 deaths linked to these restraints over the last two decades. Nicous D'André Spring's death on Christmas Eve 2022, after being pepper-sprayed and placed in a spit hood, is one such case. Investigations reveal inconsistent and often non-existent training and policies governing their use across various institutions.

Experts warn that improper use of spit hoods can lead to serious injury or death. The devices, intended to protect first responders, have been misused in nearly all of the 17 identified fatal incidents, sometimes contributing to positional asphyxia or exacerbating situations involving pepper spray. There is a lack of independent verification of their safety and effectiveness.

Data on spit hood usage is inconsistently collected, with some institutions not tracking it at all. This lack of comprehensive data and regulation creates a patchwork of safety standards. In contrast, some countries like the United States and Australia have begun banning or restricting their use due to legal settlements and public scrutiny.

Recent events include a public inquiry into William Ahmo's death in a Manitoba jail in 2021, caught on video, and the ongoing civil suit filed by Sarafina Dennie for her brother Nicous's death. New Brunswick has discontinued their use in provincial detention, but they remain in use in federal penitentiaries and police forces nationwide. As of January 17, 2023, a public inquiry was ordered into Nicous D'Andre Spring's death.