Intoxicated Constabulary
Information
1857: Following a series of allegations by the editor of the Peterborough Advertiser that 'his constabulary were becoming intoxicated whilst on duty', Chief Constable Bayly of the Liberty of Peterborough Constabulary responded today by sending the editor a copy of a letter dated 1 May, which had been sent to all 'Publicans, Beer-House Keepers &c' in the Liberty. That letter read:
Having given all the men at present employed in the Liberty Constabulary strict orders not to frequent Public Houses, I trust that you will assist me, as far as you possibly can, in carrying out such an order. I think it also right to here quote the clause from the Act of Parliament relating to Victuallers &c harbouring or entertaining any Constable belonging to the Liberty Constabulary Force, or permitting such Constables to remain in his house, or on his premises, and for doing which such Victualler &c renders himself liable to a penalty of £5. After this caution, I shall feel myself compelled, for the good order of the Police, strictly to enforce the above penalty against any Victualler &c who may offend against the Act of Parliament as mentioned.
Taken from The Peterborough Book of Days by Brian Jones, The History Press, 2014.