Over 80 arrested for drink or drug driving over Christmas in Suffolk
Suffolk Police say there were less offences compared to the previous year due to the pandemic
Last updated 26th Jan 2021
Suffolk Police arrested 86 motorists as part of their Christmas drink and drug driving campaign.
Between 1st December 2020 and 1st January 2021 the force took part in a national-operation involving roadside checks and intelligence-led enforcement activity.
During that period, 43 people failed breath tests, 30 provided positive test results for drugs, five failed to provide a specimen and eight were arrested for being unfit to drive through drink and drugs.
The total was less than the previous year, where 170 people were arrested in connection with drink and drug driving, which is mainly being put down to hospitality businesses being closed and people working from home.
Temporary Chief Inspector Jon Chapman, Head of the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Harmed Policing Team, said: "While fewer people have been caught drink or drug driving during this campaign, I think we have to acknowledge the coronavirus pandemic is likely to be a significant factor in that.
"With more people working from home the roads were obviously quieter and with the hospitality sector closed during December, there were not people taking unnecessary risks after a night out at a pub or restaurant.
"However, it is disappointing to see that people are still prepared to gamble with their own life and the lives of others. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs your judgement, making your reactions slower and therefore increases the chances of being involved in a collision.
"People should not view this pandemic as an opportunity to break the law. Our officers are still out as usual and will be enforcing the fatal four causes of deaths and serious injuries on the roads.
"Expect to be dealt with appropriately if you are caught drink/drug driving; speeding; using a mobile phone; or not wearing a seatbelt. The risks are not worth it – you could lose your licence, be arrested, or - in the worst scenario of all - kill someone."
Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Tim Passmore, added: "I’m pleased to see the number of drivers failing breath tests has fallen this year, it’s just a pity it has taken a pandemic to enable this.
"However, I do appreciate that many drivers have taken the advice to stay at home and this has had a significant impact on reducing the pressure on the NHS which is good news.
"Unlike many of us who are able to protect ourselves by staying at home, Suffolk Constabulary officers are on duty as usual, putting themselves at increased risk to keep us safe. Our roads policing officers continue to patrol the county’s roads so please remember if you break the law there is a good chance you will get caught - it’s just not worth the risk."