Thousands arrested in Devon and Cornwall drink and drug-drive crackdown

In December, 355 arrests for driving under the influence of drugs or drink were made across Devon and Cornwall

More than 3,000 drink and drug-drivers were arrested last year across Devon and Cornwall, police bosses say.

Of these, 355 arrests were made in December in a campaign to get partygoers to abide by driving laws.

Police commissioner Alison Hernandez said driving under the influence was "a selfish act that needlessly endangers the lives of innocent people".

Even a small amount of alcohol made a driver three times more likely to be killed in an accident, she said.

Work across 2023 saw 3,113 arrests.

Operation Limit, throughout December, encouraged people going out socially to plan their journeys home.

It reminded motorists of the potential consequences of being caught driving while under the influence and it also encouraged the public to report suspected drink or drug-drivers to the police.

Of 355 arrests made in December, 168 were arrested on suspicion of drink-driving, 86 on suspicion of drug-driving and 89 on suspicion of being unfit to drive through drink and/or drugs, police said.

In addition, 12 people were arrested for refusing to co-operate at the roadside, they added.

'Devastating implications'

Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Ms Hernandez said: "Hundreds of people are killed and seriously injured in the UK in drink-drive related crashes every year.

"Even a small amount of alcohol in your system makes you six times more likely to be involved in a fatal collision and three times more likely to be killed yourself."

Devon and Cornwall Police has also released body-worn video footage showing drivers being stopped, breathalysed and arrested as part of a continued crackdown on drink and drug-driving.

"I really hope this video prevents people from making a bad decision," Ms Hernandez said. "The implications could be devastating."

Chief Inspector Simon Jenkinson thanked members of the public who had alerted officers to drivers suspected to be under the influence.

He also thanked pubs and bars that had rewarded designated drivers with free soft drinks in December.