State Police reports five alcohol-related violations this year; minister seeks review of police chief

This year, the State Police has recorded five cases in which its officers were found to be under the influence of alcohol. Two of the violations occurred while on duty, and three outside duty hours.

From 2021 through August of this year, the force has logged 57 such disciplinary violations. Of these, 31 were committed in 2021 and 2022. Most of the violations across the period took place while officers were off duty.

According to the police, the internal control system includes regular comprehensive medical checks, inspections by direct supervisors and the Internal Control Bureau. Officers can also use reporting channels to alert management about colleagues struggling with addiction. In addition, traffic checks are held on roads, where police employees may also be tested.

Each confirmed violation is assessed individually, taking into account the nature, circumstances and severity of the offence. Penalties range from a note or reprimand to dismissal from service. If there are signs of a possible criminal offence, the Internal Security Bureau takes over the investigation.

Supervisors of structural units have been instructed to step up disciplinary checks. Alcohol concentration tests will now be carried out before duty for officers who need a service firearm or drive a service vehicle.

The police also referred to an incident in Aizkraukle on the evening of 29 July, when a female police officer was detained after causing a traffic accident while drunk and then hiding. Her breath contained 3.18 parts per thousand of alcohol.

Following these events, Interior Minister Jānis Dombrava has called for a service review regarding State Police chief Armands Ruka.