A driver who blew almost four times the drink drive limit in York is among more than 40 suspected drink and drug drivers arrested in just one week.
The man in his 40s was arrested and will appear at York Magistrates’ Court in the coming weeks.
A total of 42 drivers have been arrested during a week-long North Yorkshire Police crackdown on drink and drug driving.
The campaign began last Monday (23 August). Traffic Constable Richard Harrison, who led the campaign, said the arrests – which average six per day – were a “surprisingly high number”.
“However these results are bittersweet,” he said.
“While they show the people of North Yorkshire that we continue to deal with offenders robustly in our fight to make our roads safer, the numbers also show that a high number of drivers still think it is acceptable to get behind the wheel while under the influence of either drink or drugs.”
Cocaine and cannabis
A number of motorists arrested during the campaign tested positive for both drink and drugs, including cocaine and cannabis.
The penalty for both offences is similar – a criminal record, automatic driving ban and a large fine on conviction. When drivers are allowed back on the road, their insurance costs are likely to increase considerably.
TC Harrison added that officers are out on patrol 24/7 every day of the year looking for the tell-tale signs of drivers who are under the influence.
They also use information provided by the public to catch offenders, which could prevent collisions and save lives.
“Although the campaign has ended, we’d encourage the public to contact us if they have any information about somebody who they suspect is drink or drug driving,” he said.
Anyone with information about someone who drives after drinking or taking drugs is urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101 today, and select option 1 to speak to the Force Control Room. If it’s happening now, dial 999.