Senior Northern Ireland Police Chief Caught Drink-Driving on Christmas Eve
A top Northern Ireland police officer faces disgrace after being caught drink-driving on Christmas Eve. Chief Superintendent Patricia Foy, once head of the PSNI’s Professional Standards Division, was fined and banned from driving following a shocking incident.
“Big Mistake” After Three Gins
At Lisburn Magistrates’ Court in County Antrim, District Judge Rosemary Watters slammed the 57-year-old for what she called a “big mistake.” Ms Foy had downed two or three large gins while off duty before making the foolhardy decision to drive to a shop just minutes from her home.
Her lawyer admitted Ms Foy “regrets appearing in court” and apologised for the Christmas Eve blunder. He revealed the officer had served with distinction for 34 years but is now suspended pending the fallout from her actions.
Crash, Arrest and Consequences
- The crash happened around 4pm on December 24 when Ms Foy’s car struck a traffic light in a minor collision.
- Police spotted her walking home and arrested her after she failed a breathalyser test.
- Charges included driving under the influence, failing to stop after an accident, and driving without due care and attention.
Her lawyer said she remembers some of the day but has “little recollection” of the crash or journey back home. Ms Foy has since sought psychological advice. Despite public interest, her legal team stressed she had no previous offences.
Fines and Driving Ban
Ms Foy was ordered to pay:
- £250 fine and 18-month driving ban for drink-driving
- £50 fine and six-month ban for failing to stop and report
- £100 fine and additional six-month ban for careless driving
Her driving ban will run concurrently for a total of 18 months, after which she must retake her driving test. The PSNI confirmed Ms Foy remains suspended and had no further comment.
“I will deal with this defendant the same way I would deal with anyone else,” Judge Watters said, highlighting the unforgiving stance on drink-driving offenders.
The high-ranking officer’s festive lapse serves as a stark warning: no one is above the law when it comes to drink-driving.
