A Warsaw police deputy commander is under investigation after testing positive for cocaine following a traffic collision in Kołobrzeg, prompting a search of his office and home.
Traffic Collision and Drug Suspicion
The incident occurred on Wednesday in front of a shopping mall in Kołobrzeg. The deputy commander, while off-duty, collided with another vehicle. A breathalyzer test and a drug test were administered at the scene.
Initial tests indicated approximately 1.5 promille of alcohol in the officer’s system, as well as the presence of cocaine. Prosecutors emphasize the drug test result is preliminary.
Preliminary Test Results and Blood Sample
“The initial test indicated the man was likely under the influence of cocaine. However, we are not relying on this test; a blood sample has been taken for further analysis,” stated prosecutor Ewa Dziadczyk from the Koszalin District Prosecutor’s Office.
Searches of Office and Residence
The Internal Affairs Bureau of the Police searched the deputy commander’s office on Warsaw’s Wola district, as well as his apartment, after the initial drug test. Data storage devices and documentation were seized as potential evidence.
The search also included an examination of police evidence storage procedures to determine the potential source of any illicit substances.
Investigation into Evidence Handling
Investigators are checking for violations of regulations regarding the recording and storage of seized substances. Individuals with access to the evidence depots and the history of operations on evidence materials are also being verified.
Criminal Investigation and Disciplinary Action
The Koszalin District Prosecutor’s Office has launched an investigation into driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The officer has been charged under Article 178a §1 of the Penal Code.
While not taken into custody, the officer was placed under a property pledge. The proceedings are being conducted outside of Warsaw, as the incident occurred in Kołobrzeg.
Suspension and Dismissal Proceedings
The officer was relieved of his position the day after the collision. The Warsaw Police Commander initiated disciplinary proceedings and an administrative procedure aimed at his suspension and dismissal from the service.
Police have announced consequences at both the criminal and disciplinary levels. The results of the blood tests and the determination of the source of the drugs will be crucial to the case.
