Police arrest nearly 100 motorists on local roads for driving under the influence
Police have arrested nearly 100 drivers for being over the drink or drug limit on Leicestershire and Rutland roads in just the last three weeks.
Officers are disappointed that motorists have again ignored warning about the dangers of driving under the influence, with 25 of the arrests being made following collisions.
One of the drivers detained was found to be a whopping four times over the legal alcohol limit.
Police have also arrested 13 motorists between 5am and noon, highlighting the continued risk posed by drivers who get behind the wheel the morning after consuming alcohol or drugs.
This year’s summer drink campaign by Leicestershire Police, which ends on July 19, coincides with the FIFA World Cup and with many later kick-offs some drivers will have been tempted to get behind the wheel after matches while over the limit.
Ch Insp Jodie White, specialist support department for the county force, said: "These figures demonstrate that far too many people are still choosing to drive after drinking alcohol or taking drugs, putting themselves and others at significant risk.
"With the World Cup taking place and many people enjoying social events over the summer, our message is simple: plan ahead and make safe choices.”
Police have made 94 arrests in total, with 70 of those for drink driving, 17 for drug driving and seven for failing to provide a sample.
Just under half of those arrested were stopped within Leicester city, with the remaining offences recorded across Leicestershire and Rutland – the Charnwood borough, alone, accounted for 16 arrests.
Those arrested represent a wide range of ages, from younger drivers to pensioners – the campaign figures include 16 drivers aged 24 and under, while the oldest person arrested was 82.
Although the majority of those arrested have been male, 11 women have also been detained during the operation.
Roads policing officers will continue to patrol across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland around the clock at the end of the campaign.
Ch Insp White added: "If you are going out, arrange a designated sober driver, book a taxi, use public transport or choose alcohol-free alternatives.
"Whatever you do, don't take the risk of driving after drinking or taking drugs.”