Where the use of force in a youth detention centre is found to be unlawful — particularly involving a prohibited weapon — substantial exemplary damages may be awarded against the government to express the court's disapproval and ensure such conduct does not recur, even where the officers involved did not know their actions were unlawful. The government's vicarious liability extends to responsibility for failing to ensure officers knew the limits of their lawful authority. A plaintiff's earlier involvement in a disturbance may reduce general damages but does not preclude recovery where the plaintiff was a bystander at the time of the unlawful force. Indigenous status is a relevant factor in assessing damages for unlawful use of force by government authorities.
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