New Zealand Police Mandate Breath Test Training After Scandal

All police officers in New Zealand must now complete a mandatory online training module for alcohol breath testing. This requirement follows the revelation that over 120 police staff are under investigation for allegedly falsifying approximately 30,000 alcohol breath tests. The issue was uncovered after police implemented a new algorithm to analyze testing data, which revealed discrepancies that the devices themselves could not detect.

In a memo circulated to staff, which was reviewed by RNZ, the police acknowledged that the recent discovery of inaccurately recorded breath tests has “led to trust and confidence impacts for police, including with our partner agencies.” The memo emphasized the police’s commitment to restoring public trust, particularly as the nation approaches the busy summer period.

The online training module, which became available on December 4, 2023, is designed to reinforce proper device operation, docking, and data download procedures. It will take roughly 15 minutes to complete, focusing on the importance of accurate breath screening for road safety and operational compliance.

Impact on Public Trust

Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers addressed the media, confirming the gravity of the situation. “We are aware that this matter has impacted public trust and confidence in our breath testing regime, and we are committed to putting this right,” she stated during an interview with RNZ’s Checkpoint programme.

Rogers explained that the staff involved had manipulated the testing devices, often recording more tests than they had conducted with motorists, particularly while in moving vehicles. This behavior allowed algorithms to identify anomalies that exceeded normal testing parameters.

While the exact reasons behind the falsifications are still being investigated, Rogers mentioned that staff may have felt pressure to meet targets. She did not rule out the possibility of a criminal investigation into those who falsified a significant number of tests, stating, “If we were to identify criminal offending, then that’s what we would address.”

Despite the ongoing investigations, no staff members have been suspended yet, raising concerns about maintaining operational integrity during this critical period.

Official Reactions and Future Steps

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) first became aware of the issue in September and expressed deep concern over the implications for road safety. A spokesperson noted, “Drink-driving enforcement is a key part of ensuring safety on New Zealand’s roads, and we are monitoring the issue closely.”

The NZTA highlighted that increased enforcement correlates with improved road safety outcomes, suggesting that the targets set for police should remain in place. An independent evaluation of the Road Policing Investment Programme is currently underway to assess the effectiveness of these measures.

Additionally, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Transport confirmed that they are working closely with both the NZTA and police to monitor the situation. “We are concerned about what has been occurring,” they stated.

Overall, this incident represents a significant challenge for the New Zealand Police as they strive to restore public confidence while ensuring road safety through legitimate enforcement practices.