Former Police Standards Head Banned from Driving for Drink-Driving Offence

Paul Kessell, formerly the head of a police force’s professional standards department, has been prohibited from driving following an incident of drink-driving where he was observed “swerving all over the road.” Mr. Kessell, a 45-year-old from Stoborough, Dorset, had resigned from his position as a detective superintendent with Dorset Police after admitting guilt in September at Southampton Magistrates’ Court to driving with an alcohol level three times the legal limit. The force later determined him guilty of gross misconduct, stating that he would have faced dismissal had he not already tendered his resignation. Mr. Kessell confessed to the charge of drink-driving on 4 August, occurring on the A352 at Wool, close to Wareham. He has since been issued a driving ban for a duration of 25 months. On the evening of the event, Kessell was pulled over and subjected to a breath test, which indicated an alcohol concentration of 115 microgrammes per 100 millilitres of breath, significantly exceeding the legal threshold of 35mcg. Additionally, he received a 12-month community order, mandating 120 hours of unpaid work, and a 12-month requirement for mental health treatment. The court further ordered him to pay £85 in costs along with a victim surcharge. Prosecutor David Finney stated that Kessell’s arrest followed alerts from members of the public regarding his driving. Mr. Finney reported: “There were several calls from members of the public about standards of driving, swerving all over the road, almost going into a hedge at one point.” David Hurley, representing the defence, indicated that his client had been experiencing mental health issues. He elaborated: “He was suffering from PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) and he was self-medicating through the use of alcohol.” Mr. Hurley added that the offence occurred as Kessell drove past Dorset Police headquarters, which “triggered flashbacks,” leading him to purchase and consume alcohol before driving. He described it as “the most stupid mistake of his life because of the effects not only on him, but his family.” Mr. Hurley confirmed that his client had sought assistance for his mental health. During sentencing, District Judge Anthony Callaway mentioned reviewing references for Kessell, including one from the chief constable that “spoke very highly” of him. The judge further remarked: “I note the devastating consequences this matter has had for you, your family and your career.” He also noted Kessell’s expression of “how deeply ashamed and saddened” he was by his actions.