Top Cop Busted for Drink-Driving on Christmas Eve
Senior Northern Ireland police officer Chief Superintendent Patricia Foy has been fined and banned from driving after a Christmas Eve drink-driving incident.
‘Big Mistake’ After Two or Three Gins
District Judge Rosemary Watters slammed Foy’s actions as a “big mistake” during the Lisburn Magistrates’ Court hearing. The 57-year-old, formerly head of the PSNI’s Professional Standards Division, drove to a shop after consuming two or three gins while off duty.
On December 24th around 4pm, police were called to a minor collision where Foy’s car hit a traffic light. Officers found her walking home and arrested her after she failed a breathalyser test.
Foy Apologises, But Faces Tough Penalties
“She recognises that she made a mistake on this day, and there is no excuse I can offer on her behalf,” said her lawyer, highlighting her 34 years of service and clean record.
Foy was fined £250 and handed an 18-month driving ban for drink-driving. She also received fines and a 6-month disqualification for failing to stop after the accident and for driving without due care and attention. Overall, she faces an 18-month ban and must retake her driving test.
Judge Watters added, “People who drink and drive always make big mistakes, and I will deal with this defendant the same way I would deal with anyone else.”
PSNI Suspends Officer After Shocking Christmas Slip-Up
A PSNI spokeswoman confirmed Foy remains suspended, adding: “We have nothing else to say at this time.”
The scandal serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law when it comes to drink-driving, not even senior cops.
