Dorset Police name those caught drink driving during summer campaign

A total of 607 breath tests were carried out by Dorset Police officers during the summer campaign, which ran between 1 June 2017 and 30 June 2017, compared to 427 breath tests during the same time the previous year. During June 2016, 43 people were charged with drink driving related offences.

As in previous years, the summer drink-drive campaign saw officers breathalysing all drivers involved in collisions, stopped while committing a moving road traffic offence and anyone suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol.

Dorset Police announced in May that anyone charged with a drink driving related offence in Dorset during June would have their name and photograph published by Dorset Police. Of the 38 people convicted, 33 were men and five were women with the average age being 38.

Each year over 100 people in Dorset still become casualties in collisions where drink or drugs were an impairing factor.

Chief Inspector Adrian Leisk, of the Alliance Roads Policing Unit, said, “This campaign also saw officers targeting known suspected drink drivers following information provided to us by the public.

“The increase demonstrates Dorset Police’s proactive approach to removing these drivers from our roads.

“I am disappointed that there are still motorists in Dorset who clearly think they are above the law and are willing to risk getting behind the wheel or on their bike after drinking alcohol.

“Too many people fail to consider the devastation that drink and drug driving can cause. Alcohol impairs many of the functions necessary for safe driving – slowing reactions and significantly reducing spatial awareness. Drink driving poses a significant threat to other road users and we aim to send out the message that these offences will simply not be tolerated. Having a second drink doubles the risk of a driver being involved in a fatal collision, for example.

“There are many consequences of drink-driving. You risk being caught by the police, appearing in court, losing your licence and potentially your job. You risk being involved in a collision which could result in serious or even fatal injuries. You also put innocent lives at risk.”

If someone is caught drink driving, they will face a minimum 12-month driving ban, a criminal record, up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.

Chief Inspector Leisk continued, “I urge anyone who suspects someone is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs to call 999 immediately so police can intercept or call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 with non-urgent information.”

Those convicted of drink driving or failing to provide a specimen for analysis received the following sentences: