Devaney conducted inspections of the boys' fingernails and hands. If he found any that were dirty or bitten, he would strike their hands as punishment. This added a layer of public humiliation to his abusive practices.
In addition to physical abuse, Devaney used racist language towards some detainees, further demeaning and dehumanising them.
The psychological impact of Devaney's actions was profound, leaving many victims with lasting trauma that they have carried for decades. His behavior was described as sadistic, with victims reporting that he seemed to enjoy inflicting pain. According to this BBC article, the boys were often struck around the face and ears and forced to exercise to the point of collapsing or vomiting.
One victim described Devaney as "an absolute monster, a psychopath, a thug who assaulted people daily, numerous times a day."
Another stated that Eastwood Park was "a place where people were not treated like human beings," emphasising that Devaney was "the worst of the worst."
Seventeen impact statements were read in court—three by the victims and the rest by the prosecuting barrister—detailing the enduring trauma from Devaney's violence and brutality.