The winter drink drug drive campaign comes to an end

86 drivers were arrested as part of the annual winter drink and drug drive campaign.

The campaign led by the Wiltshire Police Roads Policing Unit, together with colleagues from Community Policing ran throughout December and combined enforcement and education to raise awareness of the risks and consequences of drink and drug driving.

Throughout the month officers undertook heightened patrols and arranged additional check sites targeting drink and drug drive offences.  The campaign was also supported by community intelligence where officers specifically targeted drivers who had been reported by members of the community.

In total 45 drivers were arrested on suspicion of drink driving and 31 drivers arrested on suspicion of drug driving offences.

Four drivers were arrested for failing to provide a sample having been suspected of drink or drug driving, and six drivers were subject to drink and or drug drive procedures in hospital following collisions.

Of those arrested 15 of these incidents took place on New Year’s Eve.

Inspector Mark Freeman who leads the Wiltshire Police Roads Policing Unit said: “We are pleased that over the course of this winter campaign we have identified and arrested 86 people who were placing themselves and others at risk through the selfish actions of drink or drug driving.

“With ongoing awareness alongside regular campaigns it’s disappointing that people in our community still see drink or drug driving as acceptable. 

“Our winter awareness campaign has now come to an end but whether it is drink or drugs, illegal or prescription, we must all be aware of the impact that driving whilst intoxicated can have, and that irresponsible behaviour like this cost lives.

“Thank you to all the officers from my team and from across our Community Policing Teams who have been part of this campaign. The campaign may have ended but they will still be working to keep our county safe through education and enforcement.

“Unfortunately drink or drug drivers continue to place others at risk throughout the year. If you know someone who drives under the influence, please report them by calling 101 or report online.”

When reporting drink or drug driving please give as much information as possible, including the driver’s details or description, their car registration and a time or day that they always do it.

If you believe that a crime is being committed and somebody is already behind the wheel then please call 999.