Suffolk's Christmas Drink and Drug Driving Campaign Results Revealed

In figures just unveiled, over 80 people were arrested by police in Suffolk during the annual Christmas campaign highlighting the dangers of drink and drug driving. 

The month-long initiative, which began on Tuesday 1st December and ended on Friday 1st January, ran in conjunction with a UK-wide operation led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council. It saw officers carrying-out roadside checks throughout the day and night, as well as intelligence-led enforcement activity. 

In Suffolk, a total of 86 motorists were arrested, with 43 people failing breath tests and 30 people providing positive drug tests. In addition, five people failed to provide a specimen and eight people were arrested for being unfit to drive through drink and drugs. 

During last year's campaign 170 people were arrested, 67 for drink-driving and 76 for drug-driving. In addition, 10 people failed to provide a specimen and 17 people were arrested for being unfit to drive through drink and drugs. 

Temporary Chief Inspector Jon Chapman, Head of the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Armed 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. 

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