22-06 - Alcohol-Related Incidents Involving Department Members

This newsletter is an updated companion to the Training Bureau newsletter “Work-Related Social Drinking” and Video Production Unit (VPU), Video Hub.  If you or someone you know may have a problem with alcohol, contact the Substance Abuse Resource Program for confidential information, resources, and referrals.

Due to many factors, the law enforcement community experiences a higher-than-average rate of substance abuse.  The most abused substance is alcohol.

Alcohol is one of the most prevalent aggravating factors for domestic disturbance incidents.  At minimum, a Departmental investigation will occur after an incident which will inhibit a deputy’s ability to promote or transfer.  The investigation may lead to punitive discipline, discharge, and/or a criminal investigation.

Click to Watch Video: “Make the Right Call”

The DMV estimates that when a person is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), the court costs and fines alone start at over $5,000 for a first-time conviction.  Add in the increased insurance costs over the next 13 years, attorney fees exceeding several thousands of dollars, and the disciplinary days off from work, can tack on additional losses; furthermore, the incident could lead to discharge.    

The physical and emotional trauma for parties involved in a DUI automobile accident is sometimes impossible to overcome.  In cases resulting in the senseless loss of life or a permanent life-altering disability, the consequences could be devastating.

WARNING! GRAPHIC VIDEO!  

Click to Watch Video: “Everybody Hurts”

Some people get behind the wheel thinking they can drive for several reasons:

• An alcohol-induced, altered state of mind or perception;
• A false sense of relaxation or confidence;
• Inability to judge physical limitations due to alcohol consumption;
• Embarrassment about being intoxicated and having to ask for a ride home;
• Inability to remember how many drinks were consumed;
• Habitual drunk drivers may feel safe from ever being caught;
• An “autopilot” state of mind, where normal, patterned behavior overrides critical thinking abilities; or
• Alcohol reduces the ability of a person to judge their sobriety.

            The next time you have a drink, have a plan, and MAKE THE RIGHT CALL!

• Pre-planning (e.g., location of establishment, designated driver, taxi, ride-sharing, Uber/Lyft, etc.); and
• Always keep in mind the potential consequences (e.g., arrest, discipline/termination, civil liability, prison, loss of life, etc.).

Click to Watch Video: “Red Wristband”

REMEMBER

Even off-duty, you are a member of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and should conduct yourself in a manner that would not bring discredit upon you or the Department.  As expressed in the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics, you have a responsibility to yourself and others to “keep your private life unsullied as an example to all.”

Psychological Services Bureau Brochure:  Alcohol and the Law Enforcement Profession

If you require further information, contact Field Operations Support Services Unit at [REDACTED TEXT]

REFERENCES

MPP 3-01/000.00 Policy and Ethics

MPP 3-01/000.10 Professional Conduct

MPP 3-01/005.00 Accountability

MPP 3-01/030.05 General Behavior

MPP 3-01/050.30 Off-Duty Incidents

MPP 3-01/030.95 Alcohol-Related and/or Domestic Violence Arrests of Personnel

MPP 3-04/020.10 Employee Relieved of Duty for Disciplinary Reasons