Former Metropolitan Police detective constable Sean Brierley engaged in misconduct by consuming three glasses of wine while on duty at an East London bar, the Gravity Well Taproom. This incident occurred on 2 July 2025 after he was informed that a suspect was not ready for questioning at Leyton police station. Bar CCTV footage captured Brierley over a two-hour period, during which he became visibly intoxicated, staggering and unable to walk straight, reflecting poorly on his responsibilities as a police officer.

The misconduct panel determined that had Brierley not resigned from the force, he would have faced dismissal for gross misconduct. His actions not only violated professional conduct standards expected of law enforcement personnel but also raised concerns about public safety and the integrity of the police force. The incident highlights the risks associated with police officers consuming alcohol while on duty, potentially jeopardizing their ability to serve and protect the community effectively.

This case has broader implications for the Metropolitan Police and its accountability measures. The ruling sends a message about the consequences of such behavior, emphasizing the necessity for police officers to adhere to strict ethical guidelines to maintain public trust. Incidents like this threaten the reputation of the police and can erode community confidence in law enforcement agencies.