Random drug tests are being introduced for police officers in Lichfield.

The tests will be introduced across Staffordshire Police for officers who drive patrol cars.

The scheme will see 20 officers a month across the force will be tested with plans in place to extend the scheme to other police staff at the end of the year.

Superintendent Stephan Popadynec from Staffordshire Police’s professional standards unit, told The Sentinel why the tests were being introduced:

“This does not imply any lack of trust in the professionalism of our staff. Such tests minimise the opportunity for people who misuse substances to enter the police service.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.