Increase in drink and drug driving arrests in December 2024

Thursday, 9 January 2025 06:05

Almost 100 people were arrested during a month-long anti-drink and drug-driving crackdown.

In December, Wiltshire Police launched their annual campaign, 'Don't Risk It', urging drivers to plan their journeys in advance if they intend to consume alcohol or illegal drugs over the festive season.

During the month, 102 driving offences were recorded, and 96 people were arrested.

These arrests came about either as a result of officers proactively stopping vehicles after observing poor driving, reports from members of the public or minor collisions where the drivers were signed off fit to detain by the ambulance service.

Drink driving was the most common offence (45 arrests) followed by drug driving (25 arrests) then driving while unfit through drugs (11 arrests) and alcohol (five arrests).

Eleven people were arrested for failing to provide a specimen for analysis when suspected of drink/drug driving, and a further five were arrested for being in charge of a motor vehicle while over the legal limit for alcohol.

The total number of arrests was slightly higher than 2023's figure of 94.

Roads Policing Inspector Steve Jolly said: "I'd like to thank my officers as well as the other teams across the force who dedicated themselves to making Wiltshire's roads safer over the holiday period.

"It is concerning that people are still choosing to take the huge risk of driving after consuming alcohol or drugs. A momentary lapse in concentration while driving can cost a life.

"Our focus on targeting drink and drug drivers throughout the county has not ended now that Christmas has passed. We encourage the public to report people they suspect are committing these offences to us - they will be dealt with robustly."

Drink/drug driving is one of the Fatal Five driving offences, which are the main contributing factors that cause serious road traffic collisions.