Ex-Met Police Officer Caught Trying to Fix Drugs Test After Cocaine Positive
A former Metropolitan Police officer has been branded guilty of gross misconduct after a failed attempt to cheat a drugs test. PC 1, who quit the force before facing disciplinary action, was proven to have taken cocaine within 72 hours of a random drug screening, medical tests confirmed.
The Cocaine Test Cover-Up
The drama unfolded on 14 October 2022, when McNicholas was ordered to take a random drug test. A doctor later confirmed no medical reason could explain his positive result. The disciplinary panel ruled he had used cocaine days before being tested.
Botched Attempt to Sabotage Urine Sample
The hearing revealed McNicholas tried to tamper with the test by contaminating his urine sample. At first, he failed to provide enough urine and reportedly attempted to fiddle with the collection pot. He was then escorted back to the office, given water, and made to try again. The second sample also tested positive for cocaine.
McNicholas denied the validity of the test, claiming the testing conditions were poor and that the sample container had been rinsed, making it non-sterile. He also argued he was refused a re-test or the chance for independent analysis. The panel dismissed these excuses, ruling his behaviour as gross misconduct.
Panel Slams McNicholas: ‘Dismissal Without Notice’
“The gravity of PC McNicholas’ behaviour means that I do not consider any sanction less than dismissal without notice is justified. He would have been dismissed immediately and placed on the College of Policing’s barred list if still serving.”
Though McNicholas resigned before the formal hearing, meaning he avoided official dismissal, he has been added to the College of Policing’s barred list. This ban blocks him from working in any future policing roles.
Metropolitan Police Reacts: Zero Tolerance for Drug Use
“We expect the highest standards of integrity from our officers and have zero tolerance for drug use within the force. PC McNicholas’ actions were completely unacceptable and damaged public trust in the police. The panel’s decision to bar him from policing reflects the seriousness of his misconduct.”
This case adds to growing concerns about misconduct within the Met, which has been under close scrutiny following a string of high-profile disciplinary scandals in recent years.
