The Independent Complaints Directorate has investigated a case of drinking and driving. It is alleged that Inspector Patrick Tsonye of the South African Police Service (SAPS) was driving a SAPS official vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Tsonye, whom is based at SAPS Kimberley provincial office in the communication component, collided with another vehicle on the N12 between Warrenton and Kimberley.
The Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) took over the case to investigate and made recommendations to the director of public prosecutions. The case was referred to court and the magistrate found Tsonye guilty on 31 August 2009.
The conviction and sentence of Patrick are as follows:
* Count one: driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol
Sentence: R2 000 or 8 months imprisonment
* Count two: reckless and negligent driving
Sentence: R1 000 or four months imprisonment
* Count three: failure to provide a breathalyzer and blood sample at the Kimberley hospital
Sentence: R400 or two months imprisonment
Inspector Patrick Tsonye was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment or R3 400 which can be paid in instalments of R500 per month.
The ICD is committed to promote proper police conduct in line with the purport of the Constitution.
Contact:
Grace Langa
Tel: 012 392 0430
Cell: 082 809 1927
E-mail: glanga@icd.gov.za
Issued by: Independent Complaints Directorate
14 Septemebr 2009
