Northants Police catch more drink-drivers than last year

Since Northamptonshire Police launched its drink-drive clampdown at the beginning of December, a total of 69 people have been arrested for driving while over the limit.

Up to the same point last year, 58 people had been arrested for the offence.

The number of drivers stopped this year compared to last year has not been released.

PC Chris Gray, from the force’s Safer Roads team, is leading this year’s operation.

He said: “It’s bad enough to find one person who is willing to get behind the wheel of a car after drinking alcohol, but to have more than we did this time last year is very disappointing.

“I hope these figures and our regular operations throughout the year will help get the message across to people that drink-driving is both dangerous and socially unacceptable.

“People need to realise that when they get behind the wheel with alcohol in their system, their judgement can be impaired and that can have fatal consequences – either for them, for the other people in their vehicle, or for other road users.”

Of the drivers arrested so far during December, 63 were men and six were women.

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

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

Regular operations will continue across Northamptonshire throughout December and into the New Year to find people who are willing to risk drink-driving.

It is hoped the high-profile operations will deter more people from taking the risk of drink-driving, both immediately after they have had a drink and during the morning after, when they may still be over the limit.

People who have information about drink-drivers can send a text message to 0780 000 5554.

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