Police officers celebrating All-Ireland final triumph now reportedly under criminal investigation
One PSNI vehicle lapped a roundabout waving a flag, while emergency lights and sirens were activated on others as celebrations spilled over onto the streets of Armagh
Three PSNI officers are reported to be under criminal investigation over their part in celebrating Armagh’s All-Ireland victory.
Footage emerged in the hours after the Croke Park triumph showing an Armagh flag being waved from a police car in the village of Camlough.
One PSNI vehicle lapped a roundabout waving a flag, while emergency lights and sirens were activated on others as celebrations spilled over onto the streets of the Orchard county.
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Now the BBC has reported that three community officers are under investigation for allegedly failing to respect and obey the law, and breaching service instruction and the code of ethics.
The officers have reportedly been served misconduct papers by the Professional Standards Department (PSD), which is also investigating any potential criminal offences committed.
The papers were delivered on August 2, the day after Chief Constable Jon Boutcher insisted: “No one is being suspended or dismissed, however, nor do I support what the officers did.”
He added: “I am very alive to the polarised commentary which has taken place since the footage came to light which again demonstrates that policing in Northern Ireland remains a lightning rod for societal views.
“It is not lost on me that earlier on Sunday evening we issued a post on local Armagh social media channels rightly congratulating Armagh on winning the All Ireland Final and putting details of our Fatal Five road safety messaging, reminding drivers to stay safe.
“Then, later that evening, police vehicles were seen being driven in Camlough in manner which was irresponsible. I, of course, understand the sentiment of what those police officers were seeking to do in supporting the local community in Armagh’s brilliant win. But there are many other ways to show that support, driving in that manner is not one of them.”
The PSNI Chief Constable said police were conducting an internal investigation into what happened which will be “proportionate and will not be unduly influenced by anyone”.
Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd said at the time: “I think that PSNI officer (has) done more for community relations with the nationalist and republican community than any glossy brochure or any glossy recruiting campaign than ever.”
After a meeting with Mr Boutcher, DUP leader Gavin Robinson said: “He is in no doubt of the need to reaffirm confidence in the PSNI’s impartiality, integrity and professional standards.”
The PSNI said it would be “inappropriate to provide any comment at this time”.
A spokesperson for the Police Federation said all the officers involved were receiving “advice, support, and assistance”, adding the “matter is still at the investigative stage no recommendations have been made yet for the PPS or anyone else to consider”.
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