Christmas drink and drug driving higher than previous year

This years' annual drink and drug driving campaign held by Devon and Cornwall Police saw 207 arrests made. This was an increase on last year. The campaign which aims to target those driving under the influence of either alcohol or drugs was held from 1st December 2021 to 1st January 2022. 

Of these 207 arrests 166 were for drink driving and 41 were for driving with excess drugs. The average age was 36, with the youngest being just 16 and the oldest being 76.

Superintendent Adrian Leisk, of the alliance roads policing team, said: “Those charged throughout the campaign were not necessarily your ‘usual’ suspects. Too many people who are otherwise law-abiding citizens, fail to consider the untold devastation that drink and drug driving can cause.

“The highest reading came from a 44-year-old man who was arrested at 3pm on New Year’s Eve – he blew 140 micrograms per millilitre of breath which is four times the legal limit, and rang in the New Year sitting alone in a police cell in our Exeter custody suite.

“This year, we have placed a greater emphasis on encouraging those planning a night out to think about how they’re getting home. I would like to thank the venues that took part in our ‘Lift Legend’ campaign for their supporting in helping to keep their customers and wider road users safe.

“In the past I have been the person knocking on the door to inform relatives that their loved one has been killed as a result of a motorist who thinks it is okay to get behind the wheel while under the influence. This is something that I do not want my team to have to do during the festive period, or any other time of year. 

“As in previous years, I would like to thank those members of the public who called us to report a drink driver. Our enforcement efforts will of course continue all year round and intelligence from the public is invaluable in keeping Devon and Cornwall’s roads safe.”

Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “There is absolutely no excuse for drink or drug driving and I was shocked to see how many people were dealt with for this offence throughout the festive period.

“Drink and drug driving is a choice people take which endangers lives and it is completely unacceptable. Those who are caught face losing their license and potentially their jobs and livelihoods – as well as potentially causing death or serious injury to themselves or others. It’s just not worth it.

“I’d like to thank those officers who gave up their Christmas and New Year to help keep Devon and Cornwall safe, as well as those residents who provided information to the police to help them do their job.”

If you suspect someone of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, dial 999 immediately with the vehicle information and direction of travel. 

For non-urgent matters, or to pass information about someone who regularly drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please go to www.dc.police.uk or call 101.