Police officers reported for domestic violence could face temporary suspension of their right to carry a service weapon, even before any criminal conviction, under a mechanism being considered by the police force.
The proposal would allow complaints involving domestic violence, disciplinary offences or criminal conduct to trigger an extraordinary psychological assessment where there are indications that an officer's suitability to possess a firearm may be in question.
According to the Justice Ministry, the filing of a complaint would not automatically lead to the removal of an officer's weapon. However, it could initiate a review process without requiring criminal proceedings to have been concluded first.
When a weapon could be removed
The mechanism could also be activated if an officer displays unusual or concerning behaviour, or experiences a significant change in psychological condition that may affect the safe performance of duties.
In such cases, the officer's certification to carry a service firearm could be temporarily suspended while a professional assessment and support process is carried out.
If the evaluation concludes that possession or use of a weapon poses a safety risk, the certification could be permanently revoked.
No mandatory psychological testing every three years
The proposal differs from an earlier plan to introduce psychological testing every three years for officers authorised to carry firearms.
After examining the idea, the police concluded that routine psychometric testing would be complex, time-consuming and unlikely to provide a sufficiently individualised assessment of an officer's ability to possess or use a weapon safely.
Instead, the preferred approach is the creation of a system focused on ongoing psychological support and targeted assessments when specific concerns arise.
The mechanism remains under review and, according to the Ministry of Justice, could be introduced through a Police Directive issued by the Chief of Police without the need for legislative amendments.
