 The family also hired a private investigator to conduct an independent investigation of the death.On 8 February 2005 an initial one-day directions hearing for a full coronial inquiry into the death in custody was held.It was decided by Coroner Michael Barnes that the inquiry would take place on the island so that the people of Palm Island would have the opportunity to observe the process; however medical evidence and evidence given by police officers was to be taken in open court in Townsville due to logistical issues and safety concerns of the police.