The police watchdog has deemed the treatment of a Christchurch teenager in custody 'appalling'.

The IPCA established police were justified in using force during a 14-year-old's arrest last year - but her care in custody was inadequate.

The teenager was driving in a convoy of three stolen cars driving dangerously across Christchurch.

She urinated and soiled herself during arrest before being taken into custody.

The girl was given a sink and wipes to clean herself and a change of clothes, but was denied a request for a shower.

Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill agrees with the report's findings- and that his team had an obligation to take care of civilians they interact with.

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