50 arrests a week in Avon & Somerset anti-drink driving campaign
There is no excuse for driving under the influence
Avon and Somerset Police say they've arrested 169 people in the first three weeks of their Christmas campaign targeting drink and drug driving.
The force has released the first figures from its annual campaign Operation Tonic, which started earlier than normal this year to coincide with the FIFA World Cup.
All of those arrests have been made since November 21, meaning the police have made an average of around 50 drink or drug driving arrests each week, since then.
Acting Chief Inspector Andy Barry, Avon and Somerset Police’s lead for Op Tonic, says it is not acceptable and there are "no excuses" for driving under the influence.
“There is no safe way to drink or drug drive – you need to find another way to get home," he said.
“We also want to remind people that if you are out drinking in the evening, there remains a real possibility you could be over the limit in the morning too and not safe to drive.
"So again, plan ahead and if you need to drive the following day, don’t drink.
"If you choose to drink and drive, there is a high chance of being intercepted by our officers.”
Police are also urging people to come forward with information if they know or suspect someone is drink driving.
“Tell us if you suspect drink/drug driving is happening," ACI Barry said.
"Please don’t be that person that lets them get away with it, because it may result in someone’s life being taken or changed forever.”
Andy added. “Your information will help us make targeted arrests and inform our patrols.
"Together we can get dangerous and irresponsible drivers off the roads this winter.”
Drivers risk up to six months’ imprisonment, an unlimited fine and a substantial driving ban if they are caught driving while above the legal limit, while anyone who causes a death while drink or drug driving faces up to 14 years’ imprisonment.
In 2021, a third of car crashes in Avon and Somerset had a drink and/or drug drive factor.
Of those crashes 12 killed someone, with each of those victims having families, friends and loved ones whose lives will be forever impacted.
Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford said: “I strongly believe that everyone should be safe to use our roads, which is why road safety is a priority within my Police and Crime Plan.
“A staggering 2,300 drink/drug driving arrests are made in a typical year across Avon and Somerset, which is why Op Tonic is such important activity.
"During this festive season please look out for one another and, if you do plan to drink, arrange a designated driver.
"There is no excuse to drink and drive.”
Reports of drink/drug drivers can be made online or by calling 101.
Alternatively reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
If someone is currently driving under the influence of drink or drugs, always call 999.