MORE drivers suspected of being over the limit at the wheel were breathalysed and arrested during Dorset Police’s campaign to tackle drink driving compared with last year.
The force has today released details of its Christmas operation which ran from December 1, 2013 to January 1, 2014.
Police teamed up with the Dorset Echo to name and shame those charged and found guilty of drink driving offences.
A number of people have already been through the courts while others are awaiting appearances.
There was an increase in traffic patrols and roadside checks during the campaign, and every driver involved in a collision was breath tested.
Dorset Police said a third (33 per cent) more drivers were breathalysed compared to the previous year.
A total of 1,472 breath tests were carried out compared to the 1,107 in 2012.
The force recorded 103 positive breath tests during the campaign – it was 101 in 2012.
In all, 430 breath tests were carried out following collisions, of which 25 were positive or the individual refused or failed to provide.
A total of 108 people were arrested.
The number of people charged was 65.
They were aged between 18 and 75 and the majority (49) were men.
The arrest rate compares with 100 last year.
Sergeant Nikki Burt, of Dorset Police’s Traffic Unit, said: “There are still some drivers in Dorset who are not getting the message that drinking and driving is dangerous and is not worth the risk.
“Drink driving will not be tolerated in Dorset and officers will continue to target those motorists who think they are above the law and pose threats to the safety of themselves and other road users by getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after consuming alcohol.”
She added: “Research has shown that even one drink can impair the ability to drive so please don’t get behind the wheel after drinking any alcohol at all and do not get into a car with a driver who you suspect has consumed alcohol.”
Drivers caught over the limit face a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record, up to six months in prison and a fine of up to £5,000.
Sgt Burt said: “I would like to thank those members of the public who called us to shop a drink driver.
“I would continue to urge anyone who suspects someone is driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol to call us.
YEARLY FIGURES:
2013 108
2012 100
2011 133
2010 90
2009 103
2008 134
2007 173
2006 204
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