Full Breakdown
Metropolitan Police Sergeant Dismissed for Intoxication While on Duty
4/17/2026, 11:53:41 PM
Incident Overview
Police Sergeant Paul Barrett has been dismissed from the Metropolitan Police following an incident on March 1, where he reported for duty while intoxicated. Barrett was responsible for supervising security at the Iranian embassy in London, a role that required him to drive between embassies to ensure adequate coverage. Upon arrival, two officers on foot patrol noted that Barrett smelled of alcohol. When confronted, he became defensive and refused to engage further, prompting concerns that led to his removal from duty.
A subsequent breath test revealed Barrett had a blood alcohol concentration of 46 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath, exceeding both the legal driving limit of 35 microgrammes and the Metropolitan Police's internal limit of 13 microgrammes for officers on duty.
Legal Consequences
Following the incident, Barrett pleaded guilty on March 16 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court to driving with excess alcohol. He was fined £700 and disqualified from driving for 14 months. The misconduct hearing highlighted the severity of his actions, particularly given his supervisory role in a high-profile and sensitive environment.
Official Statements & Responses
Commander Jason Prins, who chaired the misconduct hearing, stated, "I found you were not fit to carry out your responsibilities. Attending a shift with excess alcohol is unacceptable." He emphasized that Barrett's intoxication was particularly concerning given the nature of his duties, which involved supervising other officers in a stressful protection post. Prins concluded that Barrett's conduct was discreditable and "likely to seriously damage confidence in the police."
Background & Context
The incident occurred during a period when additional police officers had been assigned to the Iranian embassy to enhance security measures. Barrett's role was critical, as he was tasked with ensuring that officers remained alert and that all posts were adequately covered.
Criticism & Opposition
While the misconduct was deemed serious, the report acknowledged that this incident was "a single and short incident of misconduct" in the context of Barrett's many years of service. Seven character references were provided, which spoke "glowingly" of his character and contributions to the police force.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Attending a shift with excess alcohol is unacceptable.” — Commander Jason Prins
- “This was a shift in which you were supervising other officers in a high-profile, sensitive and stressful protection post.” — Commander Jason Prins
- “Commander Jason Prins, who chaired the misconduct hearing, stated: "I found you were not fit to carry out your responsibilities.” — Commander Jason Prins
- “likely to seriously damage confidence in the police” — Commander Jason Prins
The dismissal of Sergeant Paul Barrett underscores the Metropolitan Police's commitment to maintaining high standards of conduct, particularly in sensitive roles involving public safety and security.
