Drivers arrested on rural roads thanks to Operation Checkpoint
Northumbria Police are targeting criminal activity in rural communities
Two intoxicated drivers have been taken off our rural roads this week after police prowling the countryside caught them in their trap.
Northumbria Police arrested the motorists on Monday as part of a joint operation in Northumberland between police officers, volunteers and partners.
It was part of another Operation Checkpoint day of action that took place alongside partners to target suspected criminal activity in our rural communities.
Operation Checkpoint – which remains one of the biggest rural policing operations of its kind in the country – saw Northumbria Police join with partners including Northumberland County Council and the Environmental Agency.
The operation resulted in a total of 35 vehicles being stopped across the region from Alnwick to Rochester.
Of those vehicles stopped, one driver was arrested on suspicion of drink driving and a second was arrested on suspicion of drug driving. Police also issued a number of warnings to drivers for vehicle defects, speeding and minor driving offences.
Previous days of action have seen poachers arrested and stolen vehicles and goods seized and returned to owners.
Northumbria Police’s Sergeant Ian Pattison, one of the leading officers on the operation, has praised those involved and promises this robust action will continue.
Sgt Pattison said:
“This was another fantastic result and was only possible thanks to the on-going support by partners and our Rural Crime Volunteers.
“Their consistent dedication is outstanding and by assisting officers we are able to strengthen our resources and ensure our rural communities remain supported and listened to.
"Our hand-in-hand work alongside partners will continue so we can effectively reduce rural crime and strengthen community confidence.”
He added:
“I know that rural crime doesn’t only impact people’s work but their whole lives can be affected too. This is why I hope these operations reassure those living in the countryside that Northumbria Police is committed to keeping these communities safe and will continue fighting crime and preventing crime in the most rural parts of our region.”
The two drivers arrested have both since been charged.
To find out more about rural policing and how you can volunteer, visit the Northumbria Police website.