More than 190 drug/drink driving arrests made since start of World Cup

We have arrested more than 190 individuals in relation to drug/drink driving offences since the start of the World Cup in November.

Since 20 November, officers have arrested 135 people for drink driving and 61 for drug driving in Staffordshire.

The work supported the forces annual drinkORdrive campaign, which launched to coincide with the start of the World Cup in November. It aimed to highlight the ways in which people could avoid drink driving during the party season by planning ahead.

Officers carried out roadside tests throughout the festive period where they suspected a driver of being under the influence of drink or drugs.

Inspector Mark Joynson, of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “The majority of road users don’t drink and drive so we’d like to say thank you to everyone who planned ahead and used public transport, a taxi or a designated driver to get home safely over the festive period. Unfortunately, as these figures show, some people continue to put themselves at risk when they choose to get behind the wheel, as well as endangering the lives of other road users, cyclists and pedestrians.

“Our officers aim to make Staffordshire’s roads as safe as possible, by removing more than 190 drivers who were under the influence we’ve protected other road users from the potential consequences of sharing a road with a drink or drug driver. If drivers are found to be drink or drug driving, they could find themselves facing up to six months in prison, a fine, a minimum 12-month ban from driving, a criminal record and an endorsement on their driving license for 11 years.

“People may think that one or two drinks don’t matter but even a small amount of alcohol can affect your reaction times and decision making abilities, making it harder to drive safely.”

Mark has also issued a warning for drivers driving under the influence of drugs.

He said: “The best advice is avoid taking drugs in the first place.

“It is not only irresponsible and against the law, but the real consequences wrecks lives and families. That family could be yours. All too often officers have to tell families that their loved ones have been seriously injured or even died as a result of a collision.

“The devastation caused by someone who has got behind the wheel after taking drugs should be unacceptable to all road users.

“I want to send a clear message - if you take drugs and drink before driving then there is a high likelihood that you will be stopped by officers and you will be caught - before you seriously hurt yourself or others.”

If you know someone who drink or drug drives you can report them online or by calling 101. Alternatively if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If there is an immediate risk to the public always call 999.