Suffolk Police arrest 150 in Christmas crackdown on drink and drug driving

Officers carried out patrols and traffic stops in an attempt to catch drivers under the influence

Representatives from all three emergency services launched the 'No Excuse' campaign at the start of December
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 21st Jan 2022
Last updated 21st Jan 2022

Suffolk Police say they made 150 arrests during their Christmas crackdown on drink and drug driving.

A total of 658 motorists were stopped as part of the month-long operation, which lasted from December 1 until January 1.

Of those 74 were arrested on suspicion of drink driving, 67 were questioned on suspicion of being behind the wheel under the influence of drugs.

Eight people were arrested for refusing to take drug or alcohol tests.

Of those who failed the tests, 85% were men. 21% were under the age of 25.

Tim Passmore, Police & Crime Commissioner for Suffolk, said:

“There is absolutely no excuse for anyone to get behind the wheel of a vehicle if they are unfit to drive, we all know drink and drug driving kills.

"It’s very disappointing to see, yet again, so many people failing the alcohol/drug test over the festive period, far too many drivers still prepared to risk their own lives and the lives of others.

“The vast majority of drivers on our roads are responsible but sadly there are still those, who despite the obvious dangers, insist on taking to the road under the influence of drink or drugs.

"My message to those irresponsible drivers who have chosen to ignore the law is take heed, our road policing officers are out across the county all day every day and if you get caught you will be prosecuted. There’s no excuse – don’t do it.”

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