A Midlands student police officer was caught drink driving on his way to work, leading to his resignation from Nottinghamshire Police before he could be dismissed. The gross misconduct hearing, chaired by Chief Constable Steve Cooper, heard that PC Tyler Beard would have been sacked had he not resigned.
Incident at Force Headquarters
On March 13, Beard was stopped from continuing his training at force headquarters in Sherwood Lodge, Nottinghamshire, when supervisors smelled alcohol on his breath. His fellow student officers were so concerned by his presentation that they immediately alerted a supervisor, according to the hearing.
After his arrest, a breath specimen revealed 42 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding the legal limit of 35 micrograms. He was subsequently charged with drink driving and suspended from the force.
Court Proceedings and Penalty
Beard admitted the offence at Derby Magistrates' Court. He received a 14-month driving ban, a £400 fine, £85 in costs, and a £160 victim surcharge. The misconduct hearing, held on Thursday, July 23, found that he breached the standard of professional behaviour relating to discreditable conduct.
Chief Constable Steve Cooper stated: "This behaviour is completely unacceptable. His cohort, made up of other student officers, were so concerned by the way he presented himself on March 13, they immediately informed a supervisor. Drink driving destroys lives and puts other road users at risk."
Impact on Police Integrity
This case highlights the zero-tolerance approach within police forces regarding drink driving, especially among officers in training. The swift action by colleagues and supervisors underscores the importance of accountability and public trust in law enforcement.
Beard's resignation means he will not face dismissal, but the outcome serves as a stark warning to other officers about the serious consequences of such behaviour.
