A senior NSW Police officer has been fined and suspended from driving after crashing an unmarked work vehicle in Sydney’s Harbour Tunnel while allegedly recording a blood alcohol concentration nearly four times the legal limit. The incident occurred just after 11 pm on February 10, 2025, following an off-duty social event where the officer reportedly consumed approximately 20 standard drinks.
Key Details of the Incident
- Location: Crash occurred in the northbound lanes of the Sydney Harbour Tunnel.
- Vehicle: Damaged police Hyundai SUV was towed, with repairs estimated at $8,200.
- Blood Alcohol Level: 0.187 BAC recorded – nearly quadruple the 0.05 legal limit for fully licensed drivers.
Consequences and Response
- Immediate Penalties: $587 fine and 6-month license suspension.
- Employment Status: The officer remains on restricted duties pending an internal investigation into potential breaches of the NSW Police Code of Conduct.
- Public Statement: A NSW Police spokesperson confirmed the incident is being treated with “the utmost seriousness”, stating, “No employee is above the law.”
This comes after a Tasmania off-duty Police officer claimed the life of an innocent person, receiving just a suspended sustence.
Dylan Gow
The Drink Driving Dilemma
The case highlights NSW’s strict drink-driving laws, where high-range offenses (0.15+ BAC) can result in automatic license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and up to 18 months imprisonment for repeat offenders. Road safety advocates have called for heightened accountability for fleet vehicle operators, noting this marks the third alcohol-related incident involving NSW Police vehicles in the past two years.
CarExplore.com.au reminds drivers that even one standard drink impairs reaction times. Always plan ahead with designated drivers, rideshares, or public transport when consuming alcohol.
Mehedi Hasan
Aize Carter
