A drunk police officer has been disqualified from driving after crashing his car while on-duty.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
The 38-year-old crashed his car in Edgecumbe, near Whakatāne, three weeks ago on Main Street about 8.30pm. He was working at the time.
The man pleaded guilty to one count of careless driving and one of excess breath alcohol earlier this month.
In the Whakatāne District Court yesterday, the man was disqualified from driving for six months, fined a $1000 and made to pay $2000 in reparation.
The man has not lost his job - but is currently stood down from police pending an employment investigation.
He was the only person involved and was not injured. Police did not name him.
Bay of Plenty district commander Superintendent Andy McGregor said the public rightly expects high standards from police.
"We set high professional standards for ourselves and demand integrity from our staff, in terms of judgement, choices and actions," Superintendent McGregor said.
"The vast majority of our staff act in accordance with Police's values.
"He is currently stood down and as Police have initiated an employment process we are unable to comment further on the matter."