Policing patrols in South Devon lead to five arrests for driving offences
Police carried out proactive patrols on Friday evening
Officers in South Devon arrested five individuals on suspicion of driving related offences, following proactive patrols across Torquay, Paignton, Newton Abbot, and Kingsbridge.
On the evening of 20th March, South Devon police teams were conducting routine patrols when the arrests were made.
Among those apprehended was a person suspected of drink driving in Torquay who also faced child neglect charges after a collision involving children.
Another individual in Paignton was arrested for drink driving and was found to be driving without a licence or insurance.
In Newton Abbot, a suspect of drug driving provided false details to police and was later identified as wanted for harassment and public order offences. This person was also charged with driving without insurance and obstructing police.
Additionally, one person was arrested for drink driving in Kingsbridge.
Inspector Wes Watkins, who leads the policing teams in South Devon, emphasised that the arrests resulted from standard proactive patrols rather than a specific targeted operation.
“Drugs and alcohol severely impair a driver’s ability to control a vehicle, slow reaction times, affect judgement, and dramatically increase the likelihood of a serious or fatal collision,” Inspector Watkins said.
He further noted, “Whilst we know the majority of road users drive safely and abide by laws, it’s disappointing to see this many people breaking the law and taking unnecessary risks in one night.”
Driving under the influence is one of the ‘Fatal Five’ causes of death and serious injuries on roads, along with not wearing a seatbelt, speeding, distractions such as using a mobile phone, and not being physically or medically fit to drive.
According to Inspector Watkins, “Every year, we see families’ lives torn apart by the selfish minority who get behind the wheel with drugs or alcohol in their system; with zero regard for their own safety or the safety of others.”
South Devon police plan to continue collaborating with partners to target offenders and reduce road fatalities and injuries.
Anyone suspecting someone of driving under the influence of drink or drugs should call 999 immediately.
Anonymous information can also be shared with CrimeStoppers at 0800 555 111.