Changes urged after teenage drug death
Posted
Updated
Coronial findings have been made to improve practices at a College Park mental health hostel in Adelaide after a teenager's death in 2003.
Thomas Keough, 18, was found dead in his room at Palm Lodge about two days after taking methadone which had not been prescribed to him.
South Australia's coroner Mark Johns has recommended that Palm Lodge reviews its policies and that staff do daily room checks.
He wants any drug dealing allegations to be referred to police.
The coroner also wants to improve the police protocols for the investigation of drug-related deaths, to ascertain the source of drugs causing death.
Mr Johns has also recommended closer monitoring of methadone distribution.
Thomas Keough's father is satisfied with the recommendations but wants to see a focus on accommodation for young people.
"Not just a lodge with a nurse in the office but the kind of place that mirrors a family unit along with appropriate professional care and support," he said.
"I believe had Thom been living in that type of environment he might still be alive today."
Search ABC News
Featured Video
-
Video
Prime Minister Julia Gillard addresses questions at a press conference in Perth on Labor leaks, Kevin Rudd and her partner's speeding fines.
-
Video
CCTV footage shows the American teenager known as the Barefoot Bandit attempting to escape from Bahamian authorities before being arrested.
-
Video
US President Barack Obama discusses his family life and the current state of the economy on a daytime chat show.
-
Video
British PM David Cameron has wrapped up his first trade visit abroad amid criticism of his comments about 'export of terror' from Pakistan.
The ABC News Online Investigative Unit encourages whistleblowers, and others with access to information they believe should be revealed for the public good, to contact us.