A serving West Yorkshire Police officer has been sentenced for drink driving after he arrived at work intoxicated earlier this year.
PC Lewis Goddard, 32, based in Leeds, was found to be more than twice the legal alcohol limit after driving to Stainbeck Police Station in his personal vehicle on 17 February 2025. A colleague, concerned by signs of intoxication, reported the officer, prompting a breathalyser test which revealed 72 micrograms of alcohol per 100ml of breath—double the legal limit of 35 micrograms and over five times the permitted level for officers on duty, in accordance with UK Government guidelines.
Court Sentencing
At a hearing at York Magistrates’ Court, Goddard pleaded guilty to a charge of driving over the prescribed alcohol limit.
He was handed the following penalties:
- An 18-month driving ban, which may be reduced by 18 weeks upon successful completion of a drink-drive rehabilitation course
- A £385 fine
- A £154 victim surcharge
- £85 in prosecution costs
The sentencing reflects standard UK penalties for first-time drink driving offences and includes access to a rehabilitation programme, part of national efforts to reduce reoffending. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), participation in such courses can reduce the likelihood of reoffending by up to 6%.
Concerns Over Police Accountability
The incident has reignited discussion over accountability within police forces, especially given the enhanced standards officers are held to when on or off duty.
A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police confirmed the force is aware of the court outcome and stated:
“We expect the highest standards from our officers. An internal investigation is now underway, and appropriate disciplinary procedures will follow.”
No comment was made regarding Goddard’s current employment status, though it is expected the matter will now be reviewed by the Professional Standards Department.
