New Zealand Police has noticed an increase in the number of applicants who have received diversions relating to drink driving offences, based on the premise that convictions for these offences could prevent them from commencing a policing career.
In response, Police would like to clarify its position on this matter.
Police will not consider applications from prospective recruits who have been charged for drink driving offences. This includes individuals who have received diversions for the offences or who have been discharged due to technicalities.
Consideration is being given as to whether or not individuals who have youth drink driving charges should be considered under a separate policy. Reasons for this consideration include the lower blood/alcohol limit and the fact that offences may relate to incidents which took place a considerable time before an employment application and/or when the individuals involved were much younger. Until a final decision on this matter has been made, all applicants with drink driving charges will not be considered for employment as police officers.
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