Staffordshire Police officer given job back after being sacked for drink driving
A Staffordshire Police officer who was sacked after being convicted of drink driving has been given her job back.
Pc Zoe Cullen, 45, who was a Hanley officer, was disqualified from driving on August 9 last year at Derby Magistrates' Court.
Cullen was convicted after pleading guilty of driving above the prescribed alcohol limit. She was sentenced to 12 months’ disqualification and fined £1,100 in costs. She was originally arrested on January 6.
At a Special Case Hearing on October 17, in front of the Chief Constable, there was a finding of gross misconduct and she was dismissed with immediate effect.
Ch Con Gareth Morgan said: “Officers and staff are held to a high standard which the public rightfully expect. It is clear this officer has fallen below the standard expected and the circumstances warranted her dismissal with immediate effect.”
But now a tribunal was held in Stoke-on-Trent after Cullen appealed the decision. The appeal was upheld yesterday and she was given a final written warning and will be reinstated as a police constable.
Police appeals tribunals (PATs) are governed by legislation and hear appeals against the findings of gross misconduct brought against police officers or special constables.
