URGENT UPDATE: A 21-year-old Aboriginal woman, identified as Chelsea Bracken, has tragically died in custody at the Mary Hutchinson Women’s Prison in Tasmania. Ms. Bracken suffered a serious medical episode and was rushed to the Royal Hobart Hospital on Saturday, where she succumbed to her condition on Monday, according to the Tasmania Prison Service.
Her family is devastated, describing her as a “loving and vibrant individual” and requesting time to mourn this profound loss. “With her passing, we would like the space to mourn and grieve her passing,” they stated. The family is receiving support from the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service.
Jake Smith, chief executive of the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service, called Ms. Bracken’s death a “tragedy,” highlighting the broader issues of overrepresentation of Aboriginal people in custody. “The loss of Chelsea – at only 21 – will profoundly impact her family, friends, and the community,” he noted, emphasizing that Aboriginal individuals are five times more likely to be incarcerated than their non-Aboriginal counterparts.
The Department of Justice has been approached for comments on this dire situation. Meanwhile, Narelle Pamplin, Director of Prisons, extended her condolences to the grieving family, stating that the matter will be referred to the coroner for further examination. “The Tasmania Prison Service will not be making any further comment,” she said.
Alina Thomas, chief executive of Engender Equality, expressed deep condolences, emphasizing the systemic issues affecting women in the Tasmanian prison system. She pointed out that Tasmania has seen the highest increase in adult prison populations from 2014 to 2024, particularly among women.
Ms. Thomas revealed alarming statistics: 98 percent of women prisoners have experienced physical abuse, and 90 percent have faced sexual violence or childhood sexual assault. She called for urgent reform in light of Ms. Bracken’s death, stating, “Correctional staff need to be more trauma-informed, and protocols should be in place to prevent re-traumatizing women in prison.”
As the investigation continues, this tragic incident raises critical questions about the treatment of Aboriginal women in custody and the measures needed to protect vulnerable populations. Advocates are urging immediate action to prevent further tragedies, stressing the need for systemic reforms that address the root causes of incarceration.
This story is developing, and further updates are expected as authorities respond to the public outcry and push for accountability. Stay tuned for more information on this urgent situation.
