Northants Police arrest more than 40 motorists in festive drink-drive crackdown

Since the beginning of December, regular patrols have been carried out across the county both late at night and early in the morning to find people who are driving with alcohol in their system.

Of the 818 breath tests carried out by Tuesday, December 15, a total of 43 drivers were found to be over the limit and were arrested for drink-driving.

PC Chris Gray from the force’s Safer Roads team said: “It’s very disappointing that people are still taking the massive risk of driving with alcohol in their system – either right after drinking or the morning after.

“The best way to make sure you are safe behind the wheel is to avoid drinking any alcohol before driving.

“So as people head off to Christmas parties, they should also plan ahead and organise either a designated driver to get everyone home without drinking or plan to take public transport.

“I hope we’ll not catch anyone else drinking and driving in the final days before Christmas and Northamptonshire’s roads will be safe throughout the festive period.

“But those who do plan to risk driving after having a drink need to know – we will be waiting for them.”

Those who are found guilty of drink-driving face up to six months in prison, a large fine or a driving ban for at least a year.

Drivers who are found guilty of causing death by careless driving while drunk can get up to 14 years in prison, an unlimited fine or a driving ban for at least two years.

Following legislation introduced in March, officers are also testing drivers for drug use as part of this year’s Christmas campaign.

So far, four people have been arrested for driving with drugs in their system.

Drivers who are convicted of drug driving face a minimum one year driving ban, an unlimited fine and up to six months in prison.

A new text line has also been set up for people to send information about drink-drivers to.

People who have concerns about drink-driving can send a text to 0780 000 5554.

Alternatively, they can call Northamptonshire Police on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.