Wiltshire Police investigate over 100 drivers for drink or drug driving
The results of their Christmas campaign have been revealed
More than 100 drivers have been investigated by Wiltshire Police during their Christmas Drink and Drug Drive campaign throughout December.
The annual month long campaign had the message ‘Don’t Risk It’, urging drivers to plan their journeys in advance if intending on consuming alcohol or illegal drugs over the festive season.
The Roads Policing Unit, neighbourhood teams and special constabulary increased patrols alongside the Road Safety Partnership, to target those drink or drug driving.
A total of 108 drivers were investigated - with 94 of those arrested.
Fourteen of the drivers were dealt with outside of arrest, as they'd been involved in serious collisions with hospital processes.
Acting Inspector Will Ayres, of Wiltshire's Roads Policing Unit, said:
“Although the annual Christmas campaign is over, we will continue to target drink or drug drivers throughout the county every day, and we encourage the public to report people to us who they suspect of committing these offences.
“This year we saw a switch towards more people drink driving with a total of 65, compared to just under 40 for drug driving. We did see a dip in drink driving offences following COVID but with the world now back to normal, people’s drinking practises have resumed and combined with the celebratory mood over Christmas, this appears to have led to a higher number of arrests.
“It’s completely unacceptable to get behind the wheel of a vehicle having consumed alcohol or illegal drugs – you are putting your own life and the lives of other road users in serious danger. Please think carefully about whether or not you are fit to drive when you get into a vehicle – it’s simply not worth the risk.”