Seven motorists arrested on suspicion of drug driving after music event

Police made seven arrests in connection with suspected drug driving following a recent unauthorised music event in the South Brent area. 

Officers attended Avon Dam on a Sunday morning after receiving reports of the event the previous evening. As attendees began leaving the site, officers carried out proactive checks and engagement activity aimed at preventing drink and drug driving offences.

Inspector Wes Watkins explained: “Our presence at the site was about prevention. We wanted to engage early with those present to prevent and deter them from driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, as we know this is one of the five main causes of serious injuries and deaths on our roads.”

When officers first arrived, they observed a vehicle leaving the site. Checks revealed the vehicle had no insurance or tax. The driver was also arrested after failing a roadside drug wipe test.

Further vehicles were subsequently stopped as part of the operation, with six drivers failing the roadside drugs test.

All were arrested and taken into custody, where blood samples were taken for further analysis. All have since been released under investigation pending toxicology results.

A quantity of drugs was also recovered during the operation on Sunday, 23 August.  

Insp Watkins added: “We would like to remind the public that attending unauthorised music events can be risky. As well as the dangers of taking illegal drugs, motorists may overlook the issue of road safety and that they could face disqualification from driving or a criminal record.

"This incident shows that positive action will be taken and drug or drink driving will not be tolerated.”

Insp Watkins continued: “As well as enforcement, officers also gave robust advice around the dangers and consequences of driving whilst under the influence. Motorists were spoken with and most decided to leave vehicles at the location and return later to collect their cars.

"The Dartmoor Rangers were present and agreed with this, in order to prevent further crime taking place.

“This was a strong team effort from Patrol, the roads policing team, the dog unit, ARV and the local neighbourhood policing team. It is hoped this will send a clear message going forward and hopefully prevent further similar instances.”

Police have said that if you think an unauthorised music event (UME) is being set up in Devon or Cornwall, contact police via 101 non emergency number or report via the Force website Raves (unlicensed music events or UMEs) | Devon & Cornwall Police. 

You can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.