Surrey Police Intensifies Campaign Against Impaired Driving Ahead of Christmas

Surrey Police has announced an intensified focus on individuals driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the period leading up to Christmas. As part of the national Operation Limit campaign, the police force will be escalating the frequency of drug tests, breath tests, vehicle stop checks, and patrols across December. Lisa Townsend, Surrey’s Police and Crime Commissioner, stated: “There is no excuse whatsoever for this behaviour and it is never, ever worth the risk.” During the campaign conducted last year, officers in Surrey apprehended 199 individuals on suspicion of drink and drug-driving offenses. The force highlighted that impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs represents a primary contributor to fatalities or severe injuries on the nation’s roadways. Supt Rachel Glenton, who leads the Surrey and Sussex Roads Policing Unit, commented: “Through education, engagement, and enforcement, we aim to reduce the devastating impact of drink and drug-driving.“We will deal robustly with offenders. So, while our officers can’t be everywhere, they could be anywhere and there really is no excuse for drivers who put their own safety and the safety of everyone else at risk.” Individuals apprehended by police for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs may incur penalties including a minimum 12-month driving prohibition, an unlimited monetary fine, a custodial sentence, and elevated insurance premiums. For updates, follow BBC Surrey on Facebook and X. Story ideas can be submitted to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.