The National Police Administration ought to take steps to handle drinking among the police force. Such steps would start with a realistic assessment of how widespread problem drinking and or alcoholism is in the force. Once that has been determined then a program should be put in place that allows police officers to seek assistance for their drinking problems.
I realize that the two solutions I have mentioned seem to be at odds; on the one hand a zero-tolerance policy leading to firing, on the other hand a policy of providing medical assistance to officers in trouble with liquor. Which of the two approaches ought to be followed hinges on one thing: is the police officer an alcoholic and is the officer willing to admit that fact and seek help. If the answer to that is no, then the cop should be fired. If the answer to that is "yes," then another solution can be sought.
The bottom line remains the same. A police officer with a badge and a loaded gun should not have liquor in his system. It is that simple and the police administration should ensure that such things do not occur.
Brian Kennedy is an attorney who writes and teaches on criminal justice and human rights issues.
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