Cambridgeshire Constabulary
Ethics Playing Cards
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Q
Is it ok to indulge in “legal highs” whilst off duty?
Case Studies
- How does this differ from alcohol consumption off duty?
- What about if you are on holiday out of the country?
Discussion
It is important to remember that you are always on duty.
- You may fall foul of random drug testing even if bought legally.
- Just because something is not illegal, does not mean that it is prudent for a serving police officer to do. It can still very clearly be regarded as an example of poor conduct.
- The Metropolitan Police Policy on CBD:
- When approached by a freedom of information request asking specifically “would police officers be disciplined or sacked if THC shows on a drugs test – even if it is 0.2%?” the Metropolitan Police Service responded that: “The Medical Review Officer will interpret any laboratory finding of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in light of the medication declared by the officer or member of staff. The review will ascertain whether there is a legitimate explanation for the presence of the drug in the sample. If there is no legitimate explanation for the THC, a disciplinary investigation would be instigated and criminal offences would be considered.”
The College of Policing Guidance makes clear that this is not condonable behaviour even if legal. This includes things such as cannabis oil etc. However, different forces have slightly different policies.