Police in Devon and Cornwall made 233 arrests during their annual campaign against those who drive under the influence of drink or drugs.

144 were on suspicion of drink driving, 84 on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, and five on suspicion of failing to provide a sample for analysis. Some drivers were arrested on suspicion of multiple offences. 



The Christmas Operation Limit campaign, which ran between December 1 and January 1, was an increase on the equivalent period the previous year that saw a total of 188 drink and drug drive arrests.



Of the 144 people arrested on suspicion of drink driving related offences, 113 were men, 30 were women and one unknown. The youngest was 17 and the oldest was 72, with the average age of those arrested being 38.



For suspected drug driving related offences, the driver was asked to complete a roadside swab. If this swab was positive, they were arrested and a blood sample was taken at custody for analysis. These bloods are currently being examined before any potential charges are brought.

Of the 84 people arrested on suspicion of drug driving related offences, 76 were men, seven were women and one unknown. The youngest was 16 and the oldest was 67, with the average age of those arrested 34.
 


During the campaign, the Force encouraged those enjoying a drink during the festive period to plan how to get home without driving.

The ‘Lift Legend’ campaign saw Devon and Cornwall Police partner with more than 90 venues across the two counties to offer free drinks to those who agreed to be the designated driver for their group. 



Superintendent Ryan Doyle, of the specialist operations department, said: “While it is disappointing to see a 24 per cent increase in the number of people arrested on suspicion of drink and drug drive related offences versus last year, I am pleased our increased efforts to tackle those drivers who are potentially a danger on our roads has resulted in a number of arrests.

“This year, we have continued to place a greater emphasis on encouraging those planning a night out to think about how they’re getting home. I would like to thank the venues that took part in our ‘Lift Legend’ campaign for their support in helping to keep their customers and wider road users safe.

“I, and too many of my colleagues have been the person knocking on the door to inform relatives that their loved one has been killed as a result of a motorist who thinks it is okay to get behind the wheel while under the influence. The pain this causes to victims’ families and loved ones is devastating, and entirely preventable.

“As in previous years, I would like to thank those members of the public who called us to report a drink driver. Our enforcement efforts will of course continue all year round and intelligence from the public is invaluable in keeping our roads safe.”