Video: Citizen Catches Police Officer Picking Up Cake on Duty – Is It Allowed?
A Riga resident filmed a police officer in uniform using a patrol car to pick up a delivered cake, raising questions about the use of public resources for private errands. The State Police explained that such actions are allowed during break time as long as they do not deviate from the assigned route.
A resident of Riga noticed and filmed a police officer who, while on duty and in uniform, used a service vehicle to pick up a cake from a delivery driver. The incident prompted the observer to question whether using state resources for personal matters is permissible, especially at a time when the government is emphasizing more efficient use of public resources.
The citizen contacted a media outlet, stating they wanted to understand the boundary between performing official duties and conducting private business during work hours. The video shows the officer approaching the delivery car, taking the cake, and driving away – the entire interaction lasting about a minute.
In response, the State Police explained that officers are not prohibited from visiting shops, cafes, gas stations, or other places while in uniform and using service vehicles for purposes such as buying water, food, or using restrooms. Receiving food from a delivery service is also allowed, provided that a break is taken. In this specific case, authorities determined that the officer picked up the food without deviating from the assigned route. Significant deviations could be subject to review.
