What life is like in a police jail cell for cricket commentator Michael Slater after he was hit with 18 horrific alleged domestic violence charges

Police sources have described the conditions that fallen former Australian cricketer Michael Slater has experienced in a Sunshine Coast jail cell that's been compared to a 'dungeon'.

The former TV commentator is facing 19 charges relating to alleged offences perpetrated on Queensland's Sunshine Coast on various dates between December 5, 2023 and April 12 this year.

Slater is charged with domestic violence offences of unlawful stalking or intimidation, breaking into a dwelling with intent at night, common assault, assault occasioning bodily harm and choking or suffocation.

The former opening batsman and TV commentator is also charged with breaching bail and 10 counts of contravening a domestic violence order.

The 54-year-old has spent the past few days in the Maroochydore police watch house since his arrest at the weekend.

Some of the alleged violent acts were captured on CCTV cameras at the woman's property, including his repeated alleged verbal abuse - screaming obscenities and abuse before smashing his way into the home.

Slater, dressed in prison greens, placed his head in his hands upon learning his bail bid had been refused.

He then collapsed while being led back to the cells by Corrective Services staff.

Slater, who led a flashy lifestyle of TV appearances, luxury houses and fast cars, faced a much different environment while staying at the Maroochydore watch house.

'It's like a dungeon … it's a strange place,' one police source told News Corp.

 Slater would have had his photo taken before being placed in a holding cell - and depending on the time of day, the cell could be full with other people, the publication reported.

Slater would then have been processed at a charge counter where his property is inspected, he is asked health questions and then undergoes a search and pat down.

If the prisoner's clothing is unsuitable, the watch house provides prison greens. 

'Depending on what happens there, if they're objecting to bail you'll be there until court the next day, so you'll be lodged in the cell overnight,' the source said.

At around 9pm or 10pm lights are dimmed down, however there will be “some sort of light” kept on, according to the source, with staff doing checks on the cell every hour.

Slater is likely to be taken to a remand centre within two weeks now that he has been refused bail.

Slater is due to appear in court again on May 31.