Metropolitan Police Officer Found Intoxicated After Visiting Bar While on Duty
A former Metropolitan Police officer was discovered to be so heavily intoxicated while on duty that he could not walk straight after consuming multiple glasses of wine at an East London bar. Former detective constable Sean Brierley would have been dismissed from the force had he not already resigned, according to a misconduct panel ruling.
Incident at Gravity Well Taproom
The incident occurred on the evening of July 2, 2025, when Brierley visited the Gravity Well Taproom in East London after being informed that a suspect at Leyton police station was not yet available for interview. Video footage from the bar revealed that Brierley ordered three glasses of white wine over a two-hour period while still officially on duty.
Staggering Return to Police Station
CCTV evidence presented to the panel showed Brierley returning to Leyton police station later that evening in a visibly impaired state. Witnesses described him as unsteady on his feet, staggering, and off balance. A custody sergeant testified that Brierley smelled strongly of alcohol, and other staff members reported that his speech was noticeably slurred.
Panel Findings and Welfare Check
Panel chair Commander Katie Lilburn summarized the findings, stating that Brierley's level of intoxication rendered him unfit to handle custodial duties, which was his primary responsibility at the station. The panel heard that concerned colleagues arranged a welfare check at Brierley's home later that night.
Officers who arrived at his address around 12:20 a.m. found him lying in bed wearing only boxer shorts, with the duvet pulled off. They reported that he appeared very disoriented and was staring at the ceiling in a glazed manner. Brierley told the officers he was okay but did not inquire why they were present or attempt to cover himself or sit up.
Gross Misconduct Determination
Commander Lilburn emphasized that Brierley's actions were intentional, deliberate, and planned, as he chose to visit the taproom and consume alcohol while on active duty. She highlighted the particular danger of being intoxicated in a police station and custody suite, given the associated risks. The panel concluded that Brierley's behavior constituted gross misconduct, warranting dismissal if he were still employed by the Metropolitan Police.
