A CHRISTMAS crackdown on drink and drug drivers in Warwickshire has resulted in more arrests.
During Operation Limit, all drivers who are involved in a collision will be asked to provide a roadside breath test and drug swipe.
Officers will also be referring suspected drink and drug drivers to support services in Warwickshire.
Recent arrests include a London man who drove into a telegraph pole on the B4452 near Ufton on December 7, snapping it in half and causing the cables to drop onto the road. Part of the pole also hit another motorist’s vehicle causing damage.
The driver was located nearby and failed a roadside breath test. He was later charged with drink driving, to appear before Warwickshire Magistrates on 26 January 26.
A 32-year-old woman from Wellesbourne was arrested on December 3 on suspicion of drug driving on the Birmingham Road near Wilmcote, when police stopped her vehicle and she failed a roadside drug swipe. She was later released on bail pending further enquiries.
A 19-year-old man from Kenilworth was arrested on the evening of December 6 on the A46 on suspicion of drug driving. He is due to answer bail in the New Year.
Sgt Simon Dalby, who is leading the operation, said: “Warwickshire Police will be looking to stop as many vehicles and speak to as many drivers as possible to catch those who offend.
“Those who fail a roadside breath or drugs test will be taken into custody for further tests and where it can be proven will be charged and given the soonest possible court date. Those who fail to provide a specimen for analysis will also be charged to court as this is an offence.
“The reason we take this so seriously is because according to the Dept for Transport, an estimated 260 people were killed in collisions involving a driver over the alcohol limit in 2021.
“While the consequences for drink and drug driving are wide ranging for drivers, the cost to families who lose loved ones is much greater.
“If you are going out drinking with your friends to a Christmas party or to a pub, please make sure you plan ahead and agree a nominated driver or pre book a taxi home.”
As a further deterrent, Warwickshire Police will continue to publicise the details of all arrests, charges and court cases throughout December.
Officers are encouraging the public and CCTV operators to report suspected drink or drug drivers by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.
