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The identity of a senior NSW police officer accused of drunkenly crashing and abandoning his work car will be kept secret for 40 years.
The high-ranking member was charged with drink-driving a fortnight ago over an alleged incident in May.
It is alleged the 46-year-old attended functions in The Rocks before getting behind the wheel of his police-issued car, striking a barrier while driving on the NorthConnex ramp before driving into a nearby street in Wahroonga and leaving the damaged car.
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The senior officer was never breath-tested but CCTV from two pubs in The Rocks allegedly captured him downing more than 20 drinks.
Police initially requested 9News not identify the officer due to operational reasons while the matter is before the courts.
A fortnight ago, a court application was launched by police to keep the inspector's name and picture a secret under a suppression order – currently known by the pseudonym AB.
The police commissioner threatened jail time if the officer was identified.
The commissioner's lawyer told the court they would ask for an extraordinary court order preventing the media from revealing the inspector's name and face for 40 years.
Today the decision was handed down in court to keep the officer's name and face suppressed for 40 years.
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It comes after questions were raised as to why a media release was not officially released by the police force when the officer was charged – as is police policy.
The matter was only made public after 9News put questions to the commissioner.
Both Police Commissioner Karen Webb and Deputy Commissioner David Hudson insist there has been no cover-up.
The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, the independent watchdog, is now examining the case.
