Over 170 arrested for drink or drug driving over Christmas in Norfolk and Suffolk
Police say there were less offences compared to the previous year due to the pandemic
Last updated 26th Jan 2021
Police in Norfolk and Suffolk arrested 172 motorists as part of their Christmas drink and drug driving campaign.
Between 1st December 2020 and 1st January 2021 the forces took part in a national-operation involving roadside checks and intelligence-led enforcement activity.
During that period, 89 people failed breath tests, 58 provided positive test results for drugs, 13 failed to provide a specimen and 12 were arrested for being unfit to drive through drink and drugs.
The total was less than the previous year, where 302 people were arrested in connection with drink and drug driving in both counties, which is mainly being put down to hospitality businesses being closed and people working from home.
Temporary Chief Inspector Jon Chapman, Head of the Joint Norfolk and Suffolk Roads and Harmed 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.
"Expect to be dealt with appropriately if you are caught drink/drug driving; speeding; using a mobile phone; or not wearing a seatbelt. The risks are not worth it – you could lose your licence, be arrested, or - in the worst scenario of all - kill someone."
Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Lorne Green said: "This annual Christmas campaign is an important part of year-round work to detect and prosecute people who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Four years ago, the IMPACT campaign was launched and has since reached thousands of young drivers with vital road-safety messages.
"Together, these campaigns are a powerful example of our determination to make Norfolk’s roads safer for all and demonstrate that we will not stand by and allow people to recklessly put the lives of themselves and others at risk.
"I am pleased to see a reduction in the number of people caught offending this year, but this doesn’t mean we can or will put the brakes on our work to keep the county’s roads safe. Drive responsibly, the life you save may even be your own."