Since the beginning of 2026, five disciplinary violations committed under the influence of alcohol have been recorded in the State Police of Latvia. Following recent high-profile cases, the agency's leadership announced the introduction of additional checks for employees before the start of their shifts.
Since the beginning of 2026, five disciplinary violations committed by employees of the State Police of Latvia while under the influence of alcohol have been registered. This was reported by the State Police.
Two violations occurred while performing official duties, and three during off-duty time.
From 2021 to August 2026, a total of 57 such disciplinary violations have been recorded in the police. More than half of them—31 cases—occurred in 2021 and 2022. Most violations were committed outside of working hours.
The State Police notes that a system of internal control aimed at identifying employees who are under the influence of alcohol has been in place for a long time. This includes regular comprehensive medical examinations, checks by immediate supervisors, and inspections by the Bureau of Internal Control.
Additionally, employees can report colleagues who have problems with alcohol or other dependencies through special reporting channels. During regular road checks, police officers themselves may also be checked.
According to representatives of the agency, the internal control system is constantly being improved to ensure service discipline, adherence to professional ethics, and maintain public trust in the police.
Each identified case is considered individually. Depending on the severity of the offense, various disciplinary measures may be applied to the employee—from a reprimand or warning to dismissal from service. If the actions of the police officer indicate signs of a criminal offense, the materials are forwarded to the Bureau of Internal Security.
Following the recent high-profile incidents, leaders of all departments have been instructed to strengthen control over discipline. Before the start of their shifts, police officers who carry service weapons or operate official vehicles will undergo mandatory alcohol testing.
The tightening of control was prompted by two high-profile cases that occurred at the end of July. On July 26, in Priekuļi, an off-duty police officer under the influence of alcohol killed a man. On July 29, in Aizkraukle, a policewoman, who was later found to have 3.18 promille of alcohol in her system, caused a traffic accident and fled the scene.
In light of these events, Minister of the Interior Janis Dombrava proposed to initiate a service check regarding the head of the State Police, Armands Ruks.
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