Drunk cop who drove off in govt. vehicle without permission sacked

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 16 October 2017, 12:00AM

A Police Officer who drove off in a Police vehicle under the influence of alcohol before crashing it has been sacked.

This was confirmed by Police Superintendent, Sala’a Sale Sala’a, who emphasised that no one is above the law – including Police officers.

He also confirmed that the Officer, who was on Probation, took off in the Police vehicle without authorisation. The incident occurred during the White Sunday weekend. 

Sala’a said the Police are serious about sending out the message that lawbreakers will not be tolerated and that starts with members of the Police force.

The incident was the subject of a press statement issued by the Police during the weekend. 

“The officer was charged after undertaking the breathalyzer procedures whereby his alcohol result exceeded the limit prescribed in the law,” the statement reads.

“The officer has been remanded at liberty and is now awaiting court proceedings to answer to the charges filed against him.

“S.P.S has a zero-tolerance policy on officer’s misuse of government assets especially whilst under the influence of alcohol.” 

Furthermore, the statement says the Ministry of Police remains committed to gaining the trust of the public by ensuring that “our officers are held accountable for the actions that they take on and off duty.

“S.P.S. is setting an example in reiterating that ‘no one is above the law’. S.P.S. would also like to take this opportunity to notify the public that no major accident or death was reported to Police over the white Sunday weekend.” 

Two weeks ago, another Police Officer was arrested and charged for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

As reported earlier the Police responded to a car crash on Wednesday at around 10.30pm on the west coast road, heading towards the airport. 

It is alleged that the initial investigation revealed the vehicle was driven by a police officer who was off duty.

“The officer was taken into the police station for further investigations,” the statement said. 

“He was proceeded through breathalyzer procedures and was found to be over the allowable limit to safely operate a motor vehicle on the road." 

“He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol."

“The officer is now remanded at liberty until the 10th of October 2017 to await his court appearance for mention as well as being suspended from official duty.” 

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 16 October 2017, 12:00AM
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