Drink/drive campaign update
| Published: 19th December 2006 11:59 |
Derbyshire Constabulary has expressed its disappointment that people are still not heeding drink-drive warnings half way through its annual Christmas campaign.
The force launched its annual Christmas anti drink and drug drive initiative on December 1st 2006.
The campaign runs up to New Year's Day and officers will target all drivers and riders suspected to be under the influence of drink or drugs, especially those involved in a collision or who commit a moving traffic offence.
Up until Sunday December 17th a total of 1,652 motorists were tested with 66 people (4.0 per cent) providing positive breath tests. There have been no positive drug tests.
The force is once again encouraging the public to call in with information on drink or drug drivers and this year has teamed up with Crimestoppers, which is offering a reward up to £1,000 for information leading to the arrest of an offender.
A total of 193 calls have been taken so far with information on drink or drug drivers.
At the same period last year 83 people had provided positive breath tests from a total of 2,061 tests taken and around 159 calls had been received from the public.
Chief Inspector Paul Berry, of Derbyshire police's Road Policing Unit, said: "It is disappointing that there are people out there who are risking their own life and the lives of other by drinking and driving.
"We are fast approaching Christmas, traditionally a period, when we have works parties and similar events, where some people will think it's ok to drink and drive.
"Those that have that attitude will face the consequences when they are stopped by the police or involved in a collision.
"We'd ask people if they are going out either not to drink at all if they're driving or to organise a taxi or minibus or to arrange a lift."
Members of the public who can supply information about people believed to be driving whilst over the alcohol limit or under the influence of drugs can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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