New Zealand Police Mandate Breath Test Training Amid Scandal

The New Zealand Police have mandated that all officers complete an online training module for alcohol breath testing. This decision follows the revelation that over 120 police staff members are being investigated for allegedly falsifying approximately 30,000 breath tests. The irregularities came to light after a new algorithm was implemented to analyze testing data, which revealed discrepancies that the breath-testing devices alone could not detect.

In a memo distributed to police personnel, the organization acknowledged that the recent findings had severely impacted public trust and confidence in their operations. The memo stated, “Police is committed to restoring that trust and confidence.” To address these concerns, the Police Executive has decided to implement a mandatory online training module aimed at ensuring proper procedures are followed during breath testing. This initiative coincides with the upcoming summer surge period, a time typically associated with increased road traffic.

The training module, which became available on November 21, is expected to take about 15 minutes to complete. It covers essential topics such as the proper operation of testing devices, docking and data download procedures, and the importance of breath screening for road safety. Officers must complete the module by December 4. The memo emphasized, “Your professional approach to breath screening saves lives and maintains public confidence in our road safety efforts.”

Investigation and Public Trust Issues

Acting Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers addressed the situation in an interview with RNZ, acknowledging that the issue has profoundly affected public trust in the police’s breath testing regime. She stated, “This training will reinforce correct practices and expectations, and ensure every staff member understands their responsibilities.”

Rogers explained that the falsified tests were conducted while officers were in moving vehicles. This method enabled the algorithm to detect results outside normal parameters. She expressed confusion over why staff felt the need to falsify tests, especially given that the police conducted 4.2 million legitimate tests last year, resulting in the lowest number of alcohol-related deaths on New Zealand roads.

While Rogers did not confirm the identities of the implicated staff members, she indicated that multiple officers from the same workgroups had been identified in the investigation. The police have not ruled out the possibility of criminal investigations against those who falsified a significant number of tests. “If we were to identify criminal offending, then that’s what we would address,” Rogers stated.

Concerns from Transport Authorities

The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) became aware of the issue in September and has expressed serious concern regarding the enforcement of drink-driving laws. A spokesperson for NZTA mentioned, “Drink-driving enforcement is a key part of ensuring safety on New Zealand’s roads,” and they are closely monitoring the situation.

The spokesperson emphasized that New Zealand police had exceeded their national target of 3.3 million tests by approximately 900,000, raising questions about the necessity of falsifying results. An independent evaluation of the Road Policing Investment Programme (RPIP) is currently underway, which will inform future decisions regarding enforcement targets and strategies.

The Ministry of Transport has also been briefed on the matter and is collaborating with both NZTA and the police to monitor the developments. They are concerned about the implications of this situation for public safety and police credibility.

As the investigation continues, the New Zealand Police remain focused on restoring public trust and ensuring that officers adhere to the highest standards of professionalism in their duties.