Dorset Police is hailing its Christmas drink and drug drive campaign a success after more than 100 arrests were made in December.
The campaign encouraged people to plan appropriate ways to get home from Christmas parties rather than getting behind the wheel whilst under the influence.
Dorset Police arrested 113 people in connection with 127 suspected offences during the month, compared with 85 arrests during the same period in 2022.
Of the 113 arrests, 71 people were arrested on suspicion of drink driving; 53 people on suspicion of drug driving and 3 further arrests were made for failing to provide a sample for analysis.
Inspector Craig Tatton, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “During December, we increased operational activity in an attempt to catch drink and drug drivers who put other roads users at risk.
“While it is disappointing to see an increase in the number of suspected drink and drug drive related offences, I am pleased that our increased efforts to tackle those drivers has resulted in so many arrests and potential convictions.
“Drink and drug driving is one of the main causes of deaths and serious injuries on roads in Dorset and the pain this causes to victims’ families is devastating, but entirely preventable.
“As in previous years, I would like to thank members of the public who called us to report a drink or drug driver. This intelligence is really important and helps us to keep our roads safe.
“I would also like to thank the venues that supported our ‘Lift Legend’ campaign, by rewarding designated drivers with free drinks as a ‘thank you’ for getting their friends and family members home safely; as well as everyone who volunteered to be the designated driver or who took our advice and planned their journey home.”
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: “I am pleased to see the increased operational activity as part of the Christmas drink and drug drive operation has yielded a positive result with 113 people arrested during the campaign. Drink and drug driving kills, and while the vast majority of road users are responsible, it is important that those who choose to take the risk and get behind the wheel while under the influence are dealt with robustly.
“I want to be clear, there is no excuse for driving after drinking alcohol or taking drugs and, as demonstrated in my Police and Crime Plan, I am in full support of officers who are relentless in their work to target those who make this dangerous choice, putting themselves and others at risk.”
If you have information relating to someone who regularly drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please call 101 or fill in an intelligence form on dorset.police.uk.
