16 PSNI officers face action over drink-driving

Sixteen police officers in Northern Ireland are facing disciplinary action after being convicted of drink-driving this year.

Sixteen police officers in Northern Ireland are facing disciplinary action after being convicted of drink-driving this year.

The PSNI officers have been criticised by Deputy Chief Constable Paul Leighton who said they faced misconduct hearings as well as the normal penalties imposed by courts.

"These figures are totally unacceptable. The behaviour of all police officers, both on and off duty, should be of the highest order," he said.

"Integrity is central to the public support of a policing organisation working with all communities to make Northern Ireland a safer place for everyone."

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Up to 60 officers have been convicted of drink-driving during the past five years and Mr Leighton, the force's disciplinary head, has said offenders could lose their jobs.

The figures come weeks ahead of this Christmas's expected drink driving blitz on motorists.

PA