Police Officer Fired After Drunk on Duty Incident in Andover, UK

Lauren Payne, age 26, had a work shift on January 17. Her shift was from 7 AM to 5 PM. She worked in Sutherland Close. Her sergeant called her back to Andover police station, but she did not respond to the call.

They found her later at Popham Services on the A303, near Micheldever. She was slumped in her Ford Focus driver’s seat. The police investigation found gross misconduct.

A hearing took place on February 10 where the panel determined she would be fired without notice. Payne had already quit her job. She is on the Barred List for five years, meaning she cannot work as a police officer.

Payne admitted guilt at the court on February 4. She pleaded guilty to drink driving while on duty. Payne had 123mg of alcohol per breath sample, while the legal limit is 35mg.

The court released Payne on bail, and her sentencing is scheduled for April 1. Her licence is gone, and sentencing will determine how long. She had no prior convictions, but prosecutors said her job made it worse.

Payne started as a police officer on March 28, 2024. Her lawyer stated Payne had substance abuse issues and mental health problems.

She went to AA. Her lawyer cited a rough breakup and job stress around the time of the event. The lawyer asked to delay the sentencing so she could enter rehab for 28 days.

The magistrate was shocked Payne got hired and wondered if she was fit to serve. He noted her guilty plea and recognized her good character before. Jail time is likely, he said, because she abused her police power.